Two men arrested in connection with arson attacks

Searches were conducted in Princess Way, Loughgall Road and West Street in Portadown and Greenpark Drive in Markethill.

Computer equipment, phones and cash were seized.

A 31-year-old was arrested in relation to two robberies and four incidents of arson and a 26-year-old was arrested in relation to 12 incidents of arson. Both men are currently helping police with their enquiries.

The arson attacks took place across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon district over a number of months.

The arrests were made by detectives from Reactive and Organised Crime, supported by local officers in Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon.

Detective Inspector Keith Gawley said, “These arrests show our commitment to addressing and tackling crime that affects our local community. Our priority will always be finding those responsible for crime and bringing them before the courts.”

Chief Inspector Davy Beck added, “Some of these incidents date back to October 2015 and I would like to thank the public for their patience and support as we conducted our enquiries and worked to take this investigation forward.

“The steps we take to address crime are not always obvious to the public and hopefully this will help provide some reassurance that we are always working to prevent, detect and deter crime right across this district.

“I would again appeal to anyone who has information about any of these arson incidents to contact police on 101.”

Alternatively, information can be passed on to the independent Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.