Newtownabbey: Arson treated as racially

A businessman in Newtownabbey has announced the impending closure of his pub and restaurant following a racially-motivated arson attack. The Railway Bar and Steam Dining was set ablaze around 01:50 BST on Wednesday, prompting police to classify the incident as a hate crime. Mr. Acharya, who took over the establishment in March, expressed his dismay, stating that the arsonists targeted him based on his skin color, despite his efforts to build a successful business and support his staff. Mr. Acharya, originally from Nepal and a resident of Northern Ireland since 2006, emphasized the shock of being targeted for his ethnicity and religion. He noted that he had received positive community support and had no prior indications that his business was at risk. In a heartfelt statement, he lamented that what was once a joyful community space had become a victim of organized hate. Local political leaders have condemned the attack, with Alliance party councillor Lewis Boyle labeling it a "heinous racist incident." She reassured the community that such actions do not reflect the values of Northern Ireland or its residents, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and support for all who choose to live in the region. In a separate incident around the same time, police reported a rock was thrown through a window of a nearby house, which they are also treating as a sectarian-motivated hate crime. Fortunately, the occupant was unharmed.