Police investigate race hate arson attack

Police in Plymouth have launched an investigation following a fire at a property in Plymouth in which the owners then received a hate-filled letter.

The incident took place at an address on Blandford Road in Efford overnight on Wednesday 6th into Thursday 7th of July.

A fire was started deliberately in the shed situated close to the house. The flames spread and caused substantial damage to the property including glass in the window of the bathroom shattering, and melting of the downpipes.

Soon after the fire was started, the occupants of the property who originate from Poland, discovered that a hate-filled letter had been sent to them, containing further threats.

Forensic examinations of the scene and the letter are currently underway, and the family are being supported by the police and partner agencies as the investigation continues.

Inspector Darren Green said: “I am appalled by this crime and incidents of hate such as this are treated as a priority by my officers. Hate crime has no place in Plymouth and we will do everything possible to locate those responsible for the fire and the disgusting letter sent to the victims.

“We believe this fire was started deliberately, was racially motivated and could have endangered the lives of the occupants. We are asking for the public’s help in this matter as someone will know who is responsible.

“If anyone knows anything that can help with our investigations, then please get in touch. We would also like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious last night and in the moments leading up to the fire, or anyone seen fleeing the scene.”

If you have any information that can help the police, please contact 101@dc.police.uk or call 101 quoting crime log CR/045564/16.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or reporting online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org