Extra patrols will be put on the streets of Belfast amid fears of further firebomb attacks on city centre shops, police confirmed today.
Dissident republican terrorists have been blamed for an escalating attempt to disrupt retail in the run-up to Christmas.
Four incendiary devices have been planted at stores in the heart of the city's shopping district.
The latest alert came when a device ignited at a branch of Dunnes Stores on High Street at the weekend.
As he announced more officers would be deployed to combat the threat, assistant chief constable Duncan McCausland hit out at those behind the alerts.
He said: "I hope that the extra patrols will work to disrupt criminal activity and help ensure that Belfast city centre is a safer place to live, work and, importantly at this time of year, to shop.
"The devices put lives and property at risk and cause unnecessary disruption to all.
"A device ignited in a store in Belfast city centre on Saturday afternoon and many people could have been hurt and property destroyed but for the quick thinking of staff."
Mr McCausland also urged traders to be increasingly vigilant and to ensure their premises remain secure.
He added; "We would also advise business owners and managers to review security measures and check premises thoroughly both during and after trading.
"An extra few minutes could make a difference."
PA