The arrest followed the planned search of a property
A man has been arrested in connection with an ongoing police investigation into recent arson attacks on 5G masts in the city.
The man, aged 45, was arrested on suspicion of 26 counts of arson following a planned search at a property in the West Belfast area yesterday, Thursday, September 11. He remains in police custody at this time.
Detective Inspector McAnee said: “We are very aware of the damaging impact these incidents are having on the community.
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“The disruption to network signal is affecting many people’s day-to-day lives, particularly those who are more vulnerable and rely on these services for their healthcare, work and connection with others.
“This remains an active investigation with multiple lines of enquiry being pursued. We are committed to catching those responsible and stopping these attacks.”
It comes as a court earlier this week heard police believe there is a network of conspiracy theorists behind an escalating campaign around the targeting of the masts.
Darren Clarke, 44, of no fixed abode, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, September 9, facing a charge of arson with intent to destroy a 5G mast belonging to the O2 network. Fire crews were called to extinguish the blaze at the telecommunications structure at Whiterock Road late on Sunday night.
An investigating detective said the incident has been linked to a wider series of 18 arson attacks on 5G masts across West Belfast since 2023.
“The total cost of the damage… is anticipated to be in the region of £4m,” he disclosed.
Refusing bail, Judge Keown cited the risks of re-offending, harm to the public and interference with the police investigation.
Clarke was remanded in custody until October 7.
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