Northern Ireland

Councillor condemns dissident republican arson attack

Dissident political group Saoradh said the car was burned by 'republic activists'
Dissident political group Saoradh said the car was burned by 'republic activists' Dissident political group Saoradh said the car was burned by 'republic activists'

SINN Féin has condemned the burning of a car by dissident republican "activists" in Derry.

The Mini Clubman was set on fire at Mulroy Gardens in the Creggan area around 7.30pm on Thursday.

Witnesses claimed it came after the vehicle struck a number of cars in the area.

Police said they believe the car was involved in an accident at Fanad Drive in Creggan.

Dissident republican political group Saoradh yesterday said the arson attack was carried out by “activists” after local people expressed concern about the car.

A spokesman said: “After speaking to residents in the area, it’s understood that republican activists working in defence of our communities responded to calls of concern.”

However, the burning of the car near homes was condemned by Sinn Féin councillor Kevin Campbell.

Mr Campbell added that there had been an increase in car crime in the Creggan area in recent days.

“People in this community are disgusted by this type of criminal activity; they just don’t need it," he said.