During an attack last night, a viable device was thrown through the window of the Belfast Islamic Centre in the University Road area, as reported by the PSNI. People were inside the building praying at the time of the incident.

The centre was evacuated after the attack, which occurred just after 10 pm. A 34-year-old man has been arrested under the Terrorism Act, although the motive for the attack remains unknown.

Ammunition Technical Officers examined the object thrown through the window and confirmed that it was viable. Detectives are exploring various motivating factors, including the possibility that it was a hate crime, according to a PSNI spokesperson.

Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally urged anyone with information to come forward. He stated that no other individuals are being sought in connection with the attack.

Claire Hanna, leader of the SDLP, condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for consistent political leadership to combat hate and division in society. Former Ulster Unionist Party leader Mike Nesbitt also denounced the attack, highlighting the positive contributions of individuals of the Islamic faith.

SDLP MLA Matthew O'Toole expressed concern over the attack, noting that it follows recent rioting targeting immigrants' homes in County Antrim. He called for concrete actions to address the threat of racial hatred in society.