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Man in his 40s arrested over attack on mosque in Co Down released on bail

The mosque in Newtownards was attacked at around 1am on Saturday
The mosque in Newtownards was attacked at around 1am on Saturday

A man arrested by police investigating an attack on a mosque in Co Down on Saturday has been released on bail.

In a statement, the PSNI said the man, 40s, was released to allow for further enquiries.

He had been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences including attempted arson, possessing a petrol bomb, and attempted intimidation.

The arrest came after officers carried out searches at two properties in Newtownards.

Police had described the attack as racially motivated.

The arrest comes after PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said the PSNI will "relentlessly pursue" those involved in the recent disorder across Northern Ireland.

The mosque in Newtownards was attacked at around 1am on Saturday, with graffiti sprayed on the front door and walls of the building in Greenwell Street.

Police had earlier said the petrol bomb used in the attack did not ignite.