A protest group called Palestinian Action has claimed responsibility for an attack on Allianz UK’s Belfast office. The incident, which is being investigated as racially-motivated criminal damage, involved paint being sprayed onto the windows of the building in the High Street area of the city center. This marks the second protest attack on Allianz UK’s Belfast base within a month.
The police have confirmed that they are treating the incident as racially-motivated criminal damage. They are asking for anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident to come forward with information. The suspects, who were dressed in black clothing with hoods up and scarves covering their faces, were seen approaching the building from the Bridge Street area and fleeing in a vehicle.
In response to the incident, Allianz UK stated that while they respect everyone’s right to have and express their opinions, they have zero tolerance for criminal behavior that threatens the safety and security of their staff and property. Despite the attack, their business operations and service to customers have not been affected.
This incident comes after the same office was occupied and vandalized by pro-Palestinian activists last month as part of a UK-wide protest targeting the firm. On that occasion, the office had to close due to concerns over staff safety.
The police are urging anyone with information or footage related to the incident to contact them or report anonymously to Crimestoppers. The investigation into the attack is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the safety and security of all individuals involved.