Former Omagh army base attacked again by arsonists

THE former married quarters at the disused St Lucia Barracks have been targeted in an arson attack for the fourth time this year.

Police and firefighters were called to the site in the early hours of Monday, where a number of derelict buildings were found on fire. The incident is being treated as deliberate.

“Shortly after 4.35am, it was reported that a number of derelict properties were alight,” said PSNI Sergeant Lucas. “Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, who were already in attendance, extinguished the fire. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 206 05/05/25, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A Department for Infrastructure (DfI) spokesperson confirmed that perimeter fencing has been repaired but added, “It is not intended to increase the security presence at this stage.”

Former town councillor and St Lucia historian Ross Hussey expressed frustration that another incident had occurred at the site.

“I really do not understand how this has been allowed to happen again,” he said. “The council, DfI and police all know people are getting in, yet nothing’s being done.”

He added, “It’s not good enough to just fix fencing because people are still getting in. Is there no CCTV behind the police station or around the site?”

Mr Hussey warned that repeated incidents endanger not only a historic site but also emergency services.

“This behaviour is senseless and dangerous.

“Firefighters and police officers shouldn’t be constantly put in harm’s way because of this reckless behaviour.”