Water workers attacked by masked men in Northern Ireland

NI Water has withdrawn workers from its £10m water mains upgrade project in Belfast, after they were attacked by masked men carrying iron bars.

The police and the fire brigade were called to the scene after the men attacked the lorry with bars, smashed the windscreen and then set it alight at 9.30 am on Friday morning. There were no reports of any injuries.

NI Water has withdrawn its contractors from the area “in the interests of health and safety”, describing the attack as “completely unwarranted, unprovoked and unnecessary”.

“Our paramount concern is the safety of our workers and we will not put them in danger. Our teams are there working for the good of the community to provide a safe and reliable service,” a spokesperson said.

“The real shame of this situation is that it will be the local community who will suffer because of the mindless destruction of a few. I would urgently appeal to the local community and their representatives to unite with us in ensuring the safety of our staff and their equipment.”