Residents targeted in sectarian attack 'to leave' after further threats

A number of families whose homes were targeted in a sectarian-motivated attack in north Belfast plan to leave their properties after a further threat was issued, a local councillor has said.

Houses were damaged in the Annalee Street and Alloa Street areas on Wednesday by a group of masked individuals, who are believed to have thrown masonry at the properties.

Independent councillor Paul McCusker, who attended a meeting about the situation on Friday, said information was received "that those involved were planning on coming back to attack the same houses".

A resident told BBC News NI said she was leaving and that she believed she had been targeted because she is a Catholic.

The resident, who spoke anonymously to protect her identity, said: "Me and my kids love this home and I've put so much money and time into this home and we're obviously left with no home now.

"I waited eight years for here, how long is it going to take me to get another house?"

Paul McCusker, who attended the meeting with residents, police and Clanmil Housing Assocition, said the new threat "was an escalation in terms of the current situation that we're very worried about".

"We did inform police immediately," he added.

"There was a lot of people, quite emotional, not knowing what's going to happen next, [that] is the big frightening thing."

McCusker said the group involved in this attack, and their reasoning, is unknown.

"The big question for a lot of the families is, why is this happening?

"I think it's a disgrace, I think it's disgusting. Politically I think there is a responsibility, Stormont has a responsibility to call this out."

The resident who spoke to BBC News NI after the meeting, and whose home had been attacked, said she and her young children now plan to leave after being informed of the threat.

"I just can't believe it, I am so, so shocked - I honestly am petrified obviously to even be here, hence the reason why I am going," she said.

"I don't know what my plans are - obviously pack up and go, me and my kids' safety is more important than staying in this house, than having it be petrol bombed while we're in it."

She added: "My kids don't want to leave my side, they are so anxious and don't understand what's going on, can't understand why people would do this to their home.

"I've been here almost six months and there's been nothing whatsoever, so why now?

"I would be hoping that Clanmil would obviously be able to rehouse me, because where else am I supposed to go with me and my children. There is nowhere for us to go."

A PSNI spokesperson said: "Neighbourhood officers were invited to attend a meeting with residents and local representatives and as a platform to listen to their concerns."

Speaking after the meeting, Inspector Irwin said: "Our investigation into these crimes is continuing.

"I want to reassure local residents that we have increased patrols in the area and will continue to engage and work alongside partner agencies, local representatives and the community."

A spokesperson for Clanmil Housing told BBC News NI they "absolutely condemn this incident which has impacted people living in our new homes at Annalee Street".

"Everyone should be allowed to live in peace and feel safe in their homes, free from intimidation or threat.

"These families have only recently moved in and have been settling in well over the past few months, creating homes and putting down roots. Their safety and wellbeing remain our priority.

"Our team has been on site again today doing all they can to support our tenants, and we are very grateful for the support we are receiving from the PSNI and the local community.

"We urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the PSNI."