A LOCAL councillor has hit out at a "serious increase in anti-social behaviour" after a car was set alight overnight in West Belfast.
Shortly after 2:50am, a white coloured KIA Sportage was set alight in Slievegallion Drive.
Independent councillor Paul Doherty hit out at those behind the incident.
"In the early hours of this morning, an attempt was made to set a family’s car on fire at Slievegallion Drive," he said. "This comes amid a serious increase in anti-social behaviour across the surrounding area.
"Over the past week I have met with residents who are at the end of their tether – including older people, people with disabilities and families with young children.
"A small group of youths are making life unbearable for people living here. This cannot be allowed to continue.
"Thank you to the residents who rallied around the car owner and offered their support following the incident.
"Anyone witnessing anti-social or criminal behaviour in the area should report it. If you have information about those responsible, please pass it on.
A PSNI spokesperson said: "The fire was extinguished upon arrival of colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service.
“Enquiries are continuing and at this stage, the incident is being treated as deliberate ignition.”
