Wilson condemns '˜tit-for-tat' violence in Larne

A number of cars were targeted in arson attacks and a town centre business was gutted after a car was used to smash through the shutters of a hairdressing salon at Main Street and set alight.

In a statement, Mr. Wilson said: “Apart from the bad publicity these actions have brought to the town, the impact of the violence has been felt by the wider community because people fear that they and their property will also be affected by the war between two criminal gangs who are now involved in tit-for-tat violence against each other.

“I have been contacted by neighbours of some of those attacked and they are obviously scared that they will either be targeted wrongly or be caught in the crossfire.

“It is important that the police step up their presence in the area and especially keep the members of these gangs under surveillance.”