‘Campaign of destruction’ blasted as another 5G mast burned in west Belfast

By Rebecca Black, PA

A “shameful campaign of destruction” has been condemned following the burning of another 5G mast in west Belfast.

A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of arson following the most recent incident, which was reported to police on Sunday night shortly after 11:30pm.

A police spokesperson said a mast off the Whiterock Road, at the junction of Brittons Parade was targeted.

They said officers attended and an investigation was launched into the latest in a series of arson attacks on these telecommunications masts.

“This is just one of a number of 5G masts that have been set on fire in the area recently,” they said.

“Aside from the significant social and economic impact these attacks are having on the local community, the act of setting fire to large electrical equipment is extremely reckless and dangerous.

“Those responsible are putting themselves and members of the public at serious risk.”

They added: “If you were in the area of Whiterock Road or Falls Road last night between the hours of the hours of 10:30pm and midnight and observed a male riding a yellow bicycle please contact police.

“Likewise, if you live in this area and believe you may have CCTV or dashcam footage that could assist our investigation, please let us know.”

West Belfast MP Paul Maskey blasted a “shameful campaign of destruction”.

“The burning of yet another 5G mast shows a total disregard for our community,” he said.

“Action is needed to bring those responsible to justice and ensure they are held accountable for the havoc caused across our city.

“These attacks, often fuelled by dangerous misinformation, must stop now. They only harm our community and hold us back.

“I strongly condemn this shameful campaign of destruction and call on everyone to stand together against the spread of falsehoods and the damage they cause.”