A police car was set on fire while officers were dealing with a domestic incident in Kilkeel.
The vandals smashed the rear window and started a fire in the boot.
Police say the reckless actions could have caused an explosion in the area.
The incident happened in Slieveshan Park at around 9:30pm. The blaze was extinguished by NIFRS officers.
“The police car parked up outside was subject to a vicious and targeted attack by a person or persons intent on destroying it. These thoughtless people smashed through the rear window and started a fire in the boot compartment with complete disregard of causing a potential explosion in this built up area.
“Fortunately we were able to call upon our colleagues in the Fire and Rescue Service to extinguish the blaze – however the car is no longer able to be used,” said a police spokesperson.
“Due to these idiotic actions there is now one less police vehicle available to us to us and as a service we need these crucial resources to keep everyone safe.
“We will be robustly investigating this arson to YOUR police vehicle. If you can offer us any assistance in our investigation please get in touch by dialling 101 using the reference number 1373 on 04/03/19,” added the spokesperson.