Downpatrick Chip Shop Targeted In Arson Attack

Police are appealing for information following a report of arson and criminal damage at a chip shop in the St. Patrick's Avenue area of Downpatrick. The incident occurred in the early hours of today, Tuesday 18th March.

Sergeant Smyth stated that police received a report shortly after 4:05 am that a car had been set alight at the commercial premises. While the fire did not cause any damage to the inside of the chip shop, the outside shutters and shop sign were damaged as a result of the blaze.

Officers from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service attended the scene and extinguished the fire, which police are treating as a case of deliberate ignition.

Sergeant Smyth added that enquiries are ongoing and urged anyone with information to come forward. "Police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the incident or who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage taken at the time, to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 241 18/03/25," he said.

Alternatively, individuals can provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Sinn Féin MP Joins A5 Protest As Legal Challenge Begins

Sinn Féin MP Órfhlaith Begley joined a protest outside Belfast's High Court today, as a legal challenge aimed at preventing the construction of the A5 road got underway. The demonstration was organised by the A5 Enough is Enough group, who are campaigning for the long-delayed project to proceed.

The West Tyrone MP stood alongside families who have lost loved ones on the existing stretch of road, emphasising the urgent need for the upgrade. "I stood today alongside families who have tragically lost loved ones on this stretch of road to say enough is enough," Ms Begley said.

She highlighted the human cost of the delays: "Every day of delay risks another sad and avoidable death on the A5." Ms Begley expressed her hope that the legal challenge would be overcome and that work on the new road could commence soon. "It is my sincere hope that we can soon move forward with building this new road," she added.

Beyond safety concerns, Ms Begley also pointed to the broader benefits the A5 upgrade would bring to motorists and local communities. "Transforming this road will help to save lives, create jobs and significantly cut journey times between the north-west and Dublin," she stated.

Appealing to those still opposing the project, Ms Begley urged them to reconsider their position. "I would urge those still opposed to this road to join with the rest of us and ensure the A5 is built."

The A5 road project has faced numerous delays and legal challenges over the years. Supporters argue that the upgrade is crucial for improving road safety and connectivity in the west of Northern Ireland, while opponents have raised concerns about environmental impact and cost. The outcome of the current legal challenge will be significant for the future of the project.

Officers Injured After Vehicle Rammed In L'Derry

Police are appealing for information following an incident in Derry/Londonderry yesterday evening, Sunday 16th March, in which a police vehicle was deliberately rammed.

The incident occurred at approximately 6:15 pm in the Clon Elagh area, when officers attempted to stop a car believed to be stolen. The driver of the grey Ford Focus failed to stop, leading to a short pursuit.

According to Superintendent Brannigan, the driver of the suspect vehicle then stopped suddenly and reversed into the police vehicle, causing injuries to two officers. The Ford Focus subsequently made off in the direction of the border.

Superintendent Brannigan condemned the actions, stating: “This vehicle was, in effect, used as a weapon against our officers. It is unacceptable that those working to keep their community safe should be targeted in this way.”

He also highlighted the impact on policing resources, noting that the police vehicle sustained damage and will be off the road for repairs, "which impacts on the local community." Superintendent Brannigan added that those responsible should expect to face the consequences of their actions in court.

Police are actively investigating the incident and are appealing to anyone who was in the Clon Elagh area at the time or who may have information about the whereabouts of the Ford Focus. The vehicle is likely to have sustained significant damage.

"Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time, or who may have information on the whereabouts of the vehicle, which is likely to be bearing significant damage, to contact us on 101 quoting reference 1232 of 16/03/25," Superintendent Brannigan said.

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