A 34-yr-old man has been arrested under the Terrorism Act and is currently being questioned by police following an attack at the Belfast Islamic Centre, reports RTE.
The incident occurred around 10pm last night at the centre on University Road in Belfast.
Security staff became suspicious of a man attempting to enter and blocked his access several times, reports RTE.
The individual then moved to the side of the centre, used a brick to break a window, and threw an incendiary device into the building.
At the time, approximately 30 men were attending evening prayers, and a number of women were also present in the centre, reports RTE.
Police arrived within minutes and arrested the 34-year-old suspect.
The premises were evacuated and cordoned off while British army bomb disposal experts assessed and removed the device.
Centre officials said the situation could have been far more dangerous if the attacker had managed to enter the building, reports RTE.
The facility, which serves over 11,000 members from more than 40 countries, remained open today.
Kashif Akram, a member of the Executive Committee, stated they would not be intimidated, although the event had been deeply distressing, reports RTE.
“It’s terrifying when they actually understood the extent of the danger they were in,” he said, reports RTE.
“Had the device gone off when it was thrown in, had it gone off at any time when he was actually trying to gain access to the building, we might be having a different
conversation today,” reports RTE.
“Security did a great job, they sensed that something was wrong. The community won’t be intimidated at all, we’ve encouraged people to come in today this business as usual. We’ll make sure all congregational prayers take place, and for an act of solidarity, the more we have, the better,” reports RTE.
While the centre has experienced previous attacks, Mr Akram described this as the most severe.
Alliance MLA for South Belfast Paula Bradshaw denounced the attack, saying it “did not reflect the diversity of south Belfast in 2025”, reports RTE.
“This attack was again designed to cause fear among people inside the centre, who were at prayer at the time. Nevertheless, I am thankful for the intervention of a nearby passer-by and for the work of the police. Those were much more reflective of the true spirit of Belfast, where most people rejoice in diversity. I would like to express my solidarity with all those who were evacuated and my thanks to all those who worked to ensure their safety,” reports RTE.
Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey said that “no-one should ever feel unsafe in their place of worship”.
“Acts like these, fuelled by hate, spread fear and division, and target people who have come to our communities to build a life and call this place home, reports RTE.
“It’s vital that all political leaders speak out and stand united against this disgusting behaviour,” reports RTE.
Green Party Councillor Áine Groogan also condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly and vicious act”.
“I am horrified to hear about the attack on the Islamic Centre during evening prayers,” she said, reports RTE.
“I want to pay tribute to the courageous passer-by who intervened and prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome. It is terrifying to consider what might have happened and I sincerely hope that all those present are recovering from this traumatic ordeal,” reports RTE.
She added: “This attack is yet another reminder of the very real danger faced by our Islamic community,” reports RTE.
The recent rise in racist hate and violence on our streets is a shameful stain on our society.
“We must all take responsibility for actively challenging racism, misinformation and bigotry wherever it appears before someone is seriously hurt. I urge those politicians who continue to hide behind the notion of so-called ‘legitimate concerns’ around migration to reflect on the consequences of their words. Such narratives are as disingenuous as they are dangerous. They help foster a culture in which hate can thrive. Frankly, they should know better,” reports RTE.
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