Firebomb attacks damage four retail outlets in Belfast

A DIY store in Belfast has been destroyed and four other business premises have been damaged in a string of suspected firebomb attacks by dissident republicans early this morning.

The Homebase outlet in the south of the city was completely destroyed in one of the blazes, which has also caused smoke damage to the Reid's furniture store next door.

Another fire also broke out at the nearby Smyth's toy store and at the JJB Sports outlet in Belfast city centre.

All three blazes were reported at around 2am and are believed to have been timed to coincide with Hallowe'en, which is already the busiest night of the year for firefighters.

Keyholders at other premises in the affected areas are being urged to check their premises amid fears of further fires.