A car was set on fire in Bleerick Drive, in the Greystone estate, which spread to two neighbouring houses. Two adults had to be rescued from one of the properties, after another two adults and child were able to escape before the fire service arrived.
Councillor Neil Kelly said: “This was an extremely serious incident and I must condemn those behind it – their reckless behaviour could have left us facing a much more devastating situation this morning.
“I attended the scene first thing this morning and was shocked to see two houses badly damaged and two cars burnt out. While it remains unclear why this fire was started, this kind of thuggish behaviour is not welcomed by the local community, who are this morning stunned by what has happened.
“I want to praise the work of the fire crews responding at the scene. Through their quick action two adults were freed from the fire and the scene was secured, ensuring no other residents were put at risk.
“Those responsible must be removed from the streets before they can strike again and I would urge anyone with information to contact the PSNI as soon as possible.”