Appeal for information over targeted arson attacks

Police have linked both attacks and are appealing for anyone with any information to come forwards

Police have appealed for information after arson attacks on two properties in Batley.

The most recent incident took place at a home on Purlwell Lane earlier, when two people approached the property between 00:30 and 00:50 BST and used accelerants to set fire to the front door.

The first arson attack took place at a property on James Street in the early hours of 22 September.

West Yorkshire Police said no-one was hurt in either incident but officers believe the two are linked.

Det Insp James Bellhouse said: "It is extremely lucky that no-one has been seriously injured in either of these arson incidents. Both have occurred at a time when the perpetrators would expect the occupants to be inside asleep.

"These appear to be targeted incidents however currently the motivations behind them are unclear."

He said following the incident on Purlwell Lane, it emerged the property had been a target for criminal damage on 23 September when two windows were smashed.

A white BMW was seen in the area of the James Street offence which was believed to have been used by those involved in the attacks.

Det Insp Bellhouse said although the offences took place in the early hours of the morning, the force underestands some vehicles were on the roads.

"There may be members of the public who have seen those involved or got footage of them on their vehicle dashcams," he said.

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