Latest oil tank fire at Broadlands ‘wasdeliberate’ - NIFRS

In response to the second such incident at the address in just over two months, fire appliances from Carrickfergus, Whitehead and Glengormley were deployed around 10.55pm on Saturday.

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service told the Carrick Times that crews attended a fire involving an oil tank, containing approximately 500 litres of home heating oil.

“The incident was dealt with at 11.22pm and the fire was started deliberately,” added the spokesperson.

Appealing for information following the criminal damage, police confirmed that just before 11.00pm on March 8 an oil tank at a house was reported to have been set on fire.

On Friday, January 3 an oil tank was reported to have been set on fire at the same address.

East Antrim MLA David Hilditch, who attended the scene, said the container was pierced twice and a fire started using tissue paper.

The DUP Assemblyman added: “One side of the oil tank has been melted. Local people tried to deal with it using a hose and basins. Anybody who lights an oil tank three feet away from a house, the consequences could be dire. You could end up with fatalities.”

Noting there have been a number of security alerts in Broadlands in recent months, he continued: “We need action, we need this stopped. Young families in that area are terrified.”

Anyone with any information about the latest incident is asked to contact Newtownabbey Police Station on 0845 600 8000. Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.