Man fears attackers may escalate violence after car arson in Rathcoole
A man whose car was set ablaze in the Rathcoole estate in County Antrim has expressed concerns that the perpetrators might attempt to kill him next. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, stated he regrets relocating to Northern Ireland due to experiencing years of both direct and indirect racism since moving there to study.
His home on Mournebeg Drive has been targeted three times within the past five months. This incident is the latest in a series of racist attacks across Northern Ireland over the past week, including assaults on two homes in Belfast during the weekend.
'I don't know whether it will be my life next'
The attacks on the man's residence have involved graffiti sprayed on the walls, a brick thrown through a window in recent weeks, and the arson attack on his car on Sunday night.
"My biggest fear is burning the house," he told NI.
"I don't know whether it will be my life next.
"Maybe they would want to come to kill me. Or stab me.
"I'm scared of the house, I'm scared of the street, I'm scared of the community. I'm scared of my neighbours. I don't know who is who,"
"They could set the house on fire. I can't change their mentalities."
He indicated his intention to leave Northern Ireland for another part of the UK or possibly return to his home country, Nigeria.
"Or probably go back to my home country, Nigeria. Seeing as that's what they want, I don't mind," he said.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has been contacted for comment regarding the incidents.
