Man Arrested Over Lisburn Threats Release On Bail

A man in his 30s was arrested by police in Lisburn on Thursday, 24th April, in connection with reports of threats made to residents living in Altona Drive on Saturday, 19th April.

The arrest was made on suspicion of intimidation and threats to damage property.

Superintendent Kelly Moore confirmed the arrest: "Today, a man aged in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of Intimidation and Threats to Damage Property. He remains in custody at this time, assisting with police enquiries."

Superintendent Moore added: "We take all reports of intimidation and threats very seriously, and we will continue to investigate them robustly. I would appeal to anyone who might have any information at all which could assist us, to come forward."

Police subsequently confirmed that the man arrested has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Detectives are continuing their investigation and are urging anyone who may have information relevant to the case to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting reference number 1426 of 19/04/25. Alternatively, a report can be made online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Alliance Representatives Welcome National Trust's Slieve Donard Recovery Report

Alliance representatives have welcomed a report published by the National Trust on Wednesday, 23rd April, detailing the condition, recovery efforts, and approach to caring for the sensitive habitats surrounding Slieve Donard.

The report addresses the various pressures impacting the Slieve Donard area, including recreational activities, overgrazing, and wildfires. The National Trust, which manages over 500 hectares of upland habitat in the Eastern Mournes, has been actively involved in initiatives to aid the recovery of this delicate environment for several years. South Down MLA Andrew McMurray stated: "This is a sobering report, which clearly shows the immense pressure these special habitats are under, including the scourge of the so-called wildfires, which devastate the area again and again. I commend the dedicated work the National Trust has been carrying out to support the recovery of the fragile flora and fauna after the fires in 2021. I have had the opportunity to meet with the charity's dedicated staff early on in my time as an MLA to see some of this excellent work for myself."

Mr McMurray further commented: "The report clearly shows the fragility of the habitats in the Mournes and the time and effort it takes to help them recover from the damage done by fires and other pressures. It really brings home the importance of monitoring, managing and caring for this special environment, whilst also allowing people to access and enjoy this landscape, which is our only true wilderness."

The Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale added: "I welcome this important report from the National Trust as it does not shy away from addressing the fragility of the landscape in the Mournes. Our wildlife faces numerous threats, and we have recently seen the devastating impacts that fires cause to nature. Fire damage can last for up to 30 years, yet we are already seeing people returning to the mountains, claiming that nature is coming back. However, what they are witnessing is the emergence of a single species rather than a diverse mix. This is because the fire has altered the soil chemistry, allowing one species to dominate."

Councillor Truesdale concluded: "In addition to the significant destruction caused by the fires, both residents and visitors are filled with anxiety whenever these rural arson incidents occur. I want to thank the National Trust for their efforts in producing this report, and having worked with them, I've seen first-hand the extensive work they do in restoration every day."

Man Charged With Drug Offences Appears Before L'Derry Court

A 40-year-old man has been charged with several drug-related offences and appeared at Londonderry Magistrates' Court today, Friday 25th April.

The charges brought against the man include possession of a Class B controlled drug, being concerned in the supply of a Class B controlled drug, and possession of criminal property.

Police have confirmed that, in line with standard legal procedures, the charges will now be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.