Police granted more time to question man arrested under Terrorism act

Detectives have been given an extra 36 hours to question a man over a hijacking and security alert in north Belfast on Friday

PSNI BADGE
Author: Chelsie KealeyPublished 29th Mar 2022
Last updated 29th Mar 2022

Detectives from the Terrorism Investigation Unit have been granted an extra 36 hours to question a 40-year-old man over a hijacking and security alert in north Belfast on Friday.

The man, who was arrested in Belfast under the Terrorism Act on Sunday 27 March, is being questioned in Musgrave Serious Crime Suite.

The UVF is suspected of involvement in the incident on Friday which saw Simon Coveney being evacuated from the event organised by the John and Pat Hume Foundation in north Belfast.

The Houben Centre, on the Crumlin Road, was evacuated and a funeral service at nearby Holy Cross church was disrupted.

Police said the driver of a van was threatened by two gunmen and forced to drive a device which he believed to be a live bomb to the church.

Detective Chief Inspector Logue said: “While I am grateful for those who have already come forward with information, I would like to hear from anyone with any information at all regarding these events to contact us.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who has information about the movements, or anyone with dash-cam footage of a white Vauxhall Vivaro van, registration mark XJZ 7908, which was carrying ladders on its roof, liveried in blue signwriting, in the areas of Sydney Street West and Holy Cross Church on the morning of Friday 25 March.

“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed that white van, being followed by a grey coloured Skoda Superb on Friday morning.

“You can contact detectives in confidence by phoning directly on 101 quoting reference number 509 of 25/03/2022. Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous.”

Read More:

Second candlelit vigil for Ukraine happening in Derry

BREAKING: Police at Finaghy train station after suspicious object found

Man arrested after teenager shot in County Tyrone

How to listen to Downtown Radio:

{{howToListen}