Detectives investigating a number of hoax bomb calls received between Saturday, 31st January and Monday, 2nd February have made two arrests.

Detective Inspector Keon said: “The calls targeted businesses in the Belfast, County Antrim and County Down areas.

“Two men – aged 46 and 32 – were arrested in east Belfast on Wednesday, 4th February on suspicion of offences including communicating false information causing a bomb hoax, intimidation and drug-related crimes. They have since been released on bail to allow for further enquiries.”

Inspector Keon continued: “When the calls were received, extensive searches took place in the relevant areas before the calls were deemed to be hoaxes. Our investigation is ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with information to contact us.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the of Beechland Drive area of Lisburn between 1am and 5am on Saturday,  31st January or the Hillhall Gardens area of Lisburn between 9pm and  11pm on Monday, 2nd February.

“Dashcam or CCTV footage you may have recorded in the named areas in these timeframes could be vital to our investigation.

“Please contact us on 101, quoting reference 1716 02/02/26 or online at http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/    

You can also contact Crimestoppers with 100% anonymity on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/