Gerry Kelly vows not to be deterred after firework attack on his home

By David Young, PA

Sinn Fein Assembly member Gerry Kelly has vowed not to be intimidated by those who threw fireworks at his house.

The north Belfast MLA said the incident at his home on Sunday evening followed repeated bomb threats on political constituency offices in the area.

Mr Kelly said a car was seen slowing down outside his house before two fireworks were thrown out the back passenger seat window causing a loud explosion.

The incident prompted a security alert in the Falls Road area, with Army bomb disposal experts called to the scene.

“I condemn this attack which is the latest in a sinister pattern of attacks and threats against public representatives,” said Mr Kelly.

“This comes against repeated bomb threats and warnings at constituency offices.

“I and other Sinn Fein representatives will not be deterred by incidents like these.”

PSNI Superintendent Nigel Henry said police received a report at around 10.50pm about the incident, which happened at 7.15pm.

“Officers attended and conducted a search of the area,” he said.

“A public safety operation was implemented and ATO were tasked.

“ATO examined what is believed to have been the remnants of fireworks, both of which had been destroyed.

“Thankfully, no-one was injured in this reckless attack.”

Mr Henry urged witnesses or anyone else with information about the incident to come forward.