Detectives from the PSNI’s Serious Crime Branch have today arrested a second man following searches in the Newry area.
Both followed reported threats made against councillors in Newry, Mourne and Down.
Detective Chief Inspector Bradley said: “The man, aged 36, was arrested under the Terrorism Act. A 46-year-old man was arrested earlier today.
“Both men remain in police custody at this time, assisting with enquiries.
“The searches and subsequent arrest forms part of an investigation into reports of threats made to elected representatives in Newry, Mourne and Down.
“Officers from both PSNI Serious Crime Branch and Local Policing in Newry, Mourne and Down are continuing to co-ordinate their efforts and work together to fully investigate threats directed towards our elected representatives, hold those responsible to account, and keep our community safe.”
The threats were reportedly linked to a previously unheard-of group calling itself the “New Republican Movement”.
A video circulated on social media in December 2025 showed three armed and masked men standing in front of an Irish flag, claiming that local councillors and MLAs were being targeted over policies relating to immigration.
In the same month, a failed pipe bomb attack was carried out at a Sinn Féin office on Monaghan Street in Newry.
