Nine arrests over arson attacks targeting PSNI officers

By Maria McCann

Nine arrests have been made by detectives investigating a string of life-threatening arsons targeting police officers in Northern Ireland.

Their vehicles and homes were attacked - and in some cases destroyed - between April and July last year.

Detectives are questioning six men and three women after searching properties in counties Antrim, Armagh and Down this morning.

The 6 men and 3 women, aged between 20 and 51, were arrested in Larne, Lisburn and Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon area on suspicion of a range of offences including arson, arson with intent to endanger lives, theft, conspiracy to cause an explosion and possession of class A, B and C controlled drugs and possessing class A, B and C controlled drugs with intent to supply.

Detective Inspector Keith Gawley said: “Today’s search and arrest operation is in connection with our investigation into a number of incidents of arson endangering life at the homes of serving police officers in the Banbridge, Portadown and Gilford areas between April and July last year when a number of victims had their vehicles and homes attacked and in some cases destroyed.

"This investigation also focuses on offences involving drugs.

“The suspects have been taken to Musgrave Police Station for questioning and a number of items have been removed for further examination. I would appeal to anyone who has any information relating to these arson endangering life incidents or any drug activity to contact detectives at Mahon Road.”