Ms Bradshaw stated: “The arson attack that occurred last night is utterly appalling and must be strongly condemned. I have visited the site and am thankful to hear that the individuals present in the property were uninjured by this attempt to endanger life, but it is clear that this could easily not have been the case.

“Unfortunately, this attack is part of a recent series of racially motivated attacks which are designed to create fear among a minority group. Those responsible do not represent the broad community and I know the vast majority stand with the victims and celebrate the progress we have made towards becoming a truly modern, diverse and inclusive city. 

“This attack is just the latest evidence that we need to move much faster with the Racial Equality Strategy, the Race Relations Order and the Refugee Integration Strategy, all of which are well overdue. It is essential that we not only develop policy that will better protect and integrate communities, but also that we demonstrate urgency in ensuring that they can feel secure here at home in Belfast.”

Councillor McDonough-Brown added:  “There is no place in our society for this kind of hatred. This behaviour is not only completely unacceptable but also deeply unsettling for the victims, and those responsible represent the views of no one but themselves.  Everyone has a right to feel safe in their home and in the wider community. 

“I would urge anyone with any information that may be useful to the PSNI in their investigations to get in touch with them, quoting reference 1672 19/08/24, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.”