An arson attack on a 5G mast in Newtownabbey has been described as ‘extremely dangerous’.
Detectives investigating the incident said the mast had been set on fire in the Doagh Road area of Newtownabbey on Tuesday evening. It was reported at around 7pm.
Emergency services attended the scene and extinguished the fire.
Detective Sergeant Ash said the incident is being treated as arson and described it as ‘extremely reckless’.
He said: “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.”
A Sinn Féin councillor described it as a ‘senseless act of vandalism’.
Taylor McGrann said: “This was not only extremely dangerous, threatening the safety of the local community, but will also damage vital network infrastructure in our area.”
In September, The Irish News reported that the cost of replacing the 25 5G masts torched in Northern Ireland since 2023 is believed to be at least £2.5 million.