Calls for ‘wanton destruction’ fuelled by conspiracy theories to end as cost of 5G mast attacks in NI hits £3.4m
The overnight incident brings the total number of masts destroyed since January 2023 to 18
Emergency services were called to reports of a 5G mast alight on Upper Dunmurry Lane shortly after 11:45pm on Monday.
Firefighters used specialist cutting equipment to access the site due to a locked gate.
The Belfast Telegraph understands the mast failed to ignite fully.
Police officers at the scene removed material from the interior of the mast that was used, in an attempt to start the blaze.
The 17 previous attacks
A spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters used a CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the fire and the scene was handed over to the PSNI.
“The cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate ignition and the incident was dealt with by 1.07am.”
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Some damage was caused to electronics in a nearby building and we’re treating the fire as deliberate, with our enquiries into the matter ongoing.
“We understand the concerns regarding the recent series of attacks on 5G masts in the west Belfast area and the significant disruption these incidents are causing across the community, impacting both businesses and local residents.
Firefighters battle 5G mast fire in Poleglass
“We believe there are individuals with knowledge that could assist us in identifying those responsible for these attacks and, once again, are appealing to the public to share any information with us.
“We’re also keen to speak with anyone who might have CCTV or other footage that could assist with our enquiries.
The overnight incident brings the total number of masts destroyed since January 2023 to 18.
Earlier this week the Sunday World reported that a group calling itself “Anarchy 61” have claimed responsibility for the most recent attacks.
The value of each mast ranges between £100k and £200k meaning the cost of the damage to date could be as high as £3.4m.
In a statement Mobile UK, the umbrella organisation of the UK’s main network providers, said the time for condemnation of such incidents has long passed, with providers now seeking what they say will be “a crucial intervention” from Stormont to help stop the attacks and ensure seamless network coverage for all, across Northern Ireland.
Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey called for an end to the attacks on 5G masts.
“This coordinated campaign must be brought to a halt,” said the West Belfast MP.
“These reckless actions are damaging our community, disconnecting people and putting lives at risk.
“It’s time for those involved in these attacks to recognise the harm they are causing and to stop.
“The PSNI must step up to the mark and bring those responsible to justice.”
