Detectives investigating a spree of hoax bomb calls that targeted businesses across Northern Ireland between Saturday 31 January and Monday 2 February have arrested two men.

The suspects, aged 46 and 32, were detained in East Belfast on Wednesday 4 February. They are being questioned on suspicion of several offences, including communicating false information to cause a bomb hoax, intimidation, and drug-related crimes. Both individuals have since been released on bail to allow for further police enquiries.

The series of malicious calls caused significant disruption across Belfast, County Antrim, and County Down. In each instance, police were forced to carry out extensive security searches of the targeted premises before the alerts could be officially declared hoaxes. Detective Inspector Keon stated: "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."

As part of the ongoing probe, investigators have issued a specific appeal for witnesses or anyone with recording devices in two areas of Lisburn. Detectives are particularly interested in the Beechland Drive area between 1am and 5am on Saturday 31 January, and the Hillhall Gardens area between 9pm and 11pm on Monday 2 February.

Inspector Keon added: "Dashcam or CCTV footage you may have recorded in the named areas in these timeframes could be vital to our investigation."

Anyone with information that could assist the Police Service of Northern Ireland is urged to call 101, quoting the reference number 1716 02/02/26. Reports can also be submitted online via the PSNI's non-emergency reporting portal. Information can also be provided with total anonymity through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.