SINN FÉIN have hit out after an Irish registered car was set on fire in a predominately loyalist area of Belfast.
The car was burnt out at around 1.30pm on Friday after being parked on the Shankill Road in the west of the city.
A PSNI spokesperson said they were treating the incident as a hate crime.
Speaking about the arson incident, Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan labeled it a "despicable attack".
"This has all the hallmarks of a hate crime and it seems the only motive for this attack is because the car had a 26-County license plate," said the West Belfast MLA.
Apparently someone with a free state reg attacked, owners had to take refuge in a shop. pic.twitter.com/9doAsaTb9B
— Patrizio Guiseppe. 🏴☠️🇮🇹 (@Hoofhea33595863) November 5, 2021
"Those involved in this despicable attack and others in recent days, need to wise up and allow our society to progress in peace.
"No one should ever be intimidated or feel fearful in any part of this city.
"These futile and dangerous actions are designed to stoke up hatred and community tensions.
"I am reiterating my calling on political unionism to show leadership and to challenge those involved in these attacks and the organising of illegal protests on interfaces.
'Dangerous rhetoric'
"It is time for the leadership of political unionism to end their dangerous rhetoric before someone is hurt or worse.
"Sinn Féin representatives and activists will continue to work actively to calm tensions and to support local residents at interfaces."
Anyone who saw any suspicious activity or who may have any dash cam or other footage is asked to to call the PSNI on 101, quoting reference number 892 of 05/11/21.
