5G mast attacks ‘fuelled by conspiracies’ after another torched overnight in west Belfast
One local councillor said the campaign of destruction against the city’s masts was being fuelled by conspiracy theorists.
Police said the fires are “extremely reckless”.
In the latest incident, firefighters were called to reports of a mast ablaze on Beechmount Avenue, close to the Falls Road, shortly before midnight on Friday.
Two fire appliances attended the scene, with the mast already well alight.
As smoke billowed from the top of the mast, firefighters used two hose reels, a jet and several fire extinguishers to bring the blaze under control.
Police arrived at the scene a short time later, but due to the quantity of water, it’s believed that any forensic evidence on the mast has likely gone.
Firefighters deal with a 5G mast fire in the Beechmount Avenue area of west Belfast. (Photo by Kevin Scott)
Earlier in the night, officers had begun patrolling several masts in the west of the city.
The Belfast Telegraph understands that officers were checking on the masts during routine patrols.
Last night’s attack brings the total number of masts destroyed since 2023 to 21.
Two other masts were attacked in the 48 hours prior – one on Annadale Embankment and another on the Glen Road in the west of the city.
Sinn Fein councillor Ciaran Beattie said the attacks must stop.
“These vital pieces of infrastructure keep thousands of homes, businesses and public services connected across our city,” he said.
“The campaign against 5G masts, driven by a small minority and fuelled by conspiracies, must end.
“Anyone with information should contact the PSNI. Those responsible must face the full force of the law.”
Police condemned the latest attack.
Detective Inspector Wilson said: “Officers attended the scene, along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, who extinguished the fire.
“This is just one of a number of 5G masts that have been set on fire recently and I cannot emphasise enough the dangers of lighting fire to electrical equipment. This is extremely reckless, and those responsible are putting themselves and members of the public at serious risk.
“We are treating this as arson and I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anyone suspicious in the area or anyone with CCTV or other footage that could assist with enquiries are asked to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 37 16/08/25.”
