Investigation Launched After Lit Firework Thrown Onto Glider

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information and witnesses after fireworks were thrown into a shop and a bus in separate incident in west Belfast on Monday, 18 September.

In the first incident around 9.15pm, a lit firework was thrown into a shop on the Stewartstown Road, starting a fire in the premises. Staff had managed to flee the shop before the firework exploded and there were no reports of any injuries.

A short time later in the same area, a lit firework was thrown on board a Glider bus as it was stopped at a bus stop. The PSNI have said they are still trying to establish what damage was caused in this incident and how many passengers may have been injured.

Sergeant Hakin said: "I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything, or who may have dashcam, CCTV or other footage, to contact us on 101, quoting reference 1749 of 18/9/23."

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/.

Reminding people about the dangers of fireworks, Sergeant Hakin continued: "This type of activity needs to stop and people need to understand that fireworks are made from explosive material and, if misused, can cause serious and life-changing injuries.

"The law is also very clear regarding the use of fireworks – it is illegal to possess, sell, handle or use them if you do not hold a valid licence to do so. If you are found breaking the law, you could be fined up to £5,000.

"I would appeal to those involved in this activity to consider for a moment the community they are affecting by their behaviour, and refrain immediately from doing so.

"People have a right to live in peace and to feel safe where they live. Those who choose to engage in anti-social and disorderly behaviour are only hurting their own communities, neighbours and friends.

"We ask parents and guardians to also speak to their young people and to know where they are to prevent them from engaging in behaviour which could result in injury or a criminal record."