Two arrests during separate raids targeting New IRA in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry

By Q Radio News

Separate policing operations targeting the New IRA have been carried out in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry. 

Detectives from the PSNI’s Terrorism Investigation Unit made two arrests this morning as part of the ongoing investigations. 

A 38-year-old man was detained in north Belfast as part of Operation Arbacia. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Raymond Murray, Head of Serious Crime Branch, said it follows the arrest and charging of 8 men and 2 women last August. 

“The man, who was arrested under the Terrorism Act, is currently in Musgrave Serious Crime Suite where he is being questioned by detectives,” he added. 

A search and arrest operation was also carried out in the Creggan area of Derry/Londonderry following a number of violent gun attacks over recent months.

A 39 year old man was arrested under the Terrorism Act and a number of electronic items were seized, including mobile phones.

He’s also been taken to Musgrave Serious Crime Suite for questioning.

Detective Chief Superintendent Raymond Murray said the arrests demonstrate that there’s no room for complacency. 

“The New IRA continues to pose a danger, especially to the communities in the areas they live and conduct their activities,” he said. 
 
“Not least is their willingness to put local people at risk in their reckless haste to carry out bombings and shootings.

“They also think nothing of using their guns against people in the communities where they live, mutilating a number of men and teenagers, particularly in the North West. 

“The brutal injuries they inflict on people are a stark violation of people’s basic human rights. And in addition to the inhumane treatment of their victims, they are putting the NHS under increasing pressure during the pandemic which is beyond reckless.

“I would ask that anyone with information on their activities, especially the brutal attacks they carry out or the location of the guns and explosives which they often leave in public areas, to tell the police.”