Arson attacks on 5G masts in Belfast have caused £2.7 million in damage, a court heard on Tuesday. Close to 30 masts were destroyed or damaged, the majority in West Belfast.

Michael Clarke, 46, of Monagh Road, faces three counts of arson linked to incidents in June 2023 and August 2025. He is also charged with conspiring with his brother Darren Clarke, 45, to destroy masts owned by multiple telecommunications companies.

Michael Clarke was initially arrested in connection with fires at the Park Centre and Owenvarragh in Andersonstown. Further charges relate to a mast set alight at Annadale Embankment.

Darren Clarke, who has no fixed address, is accused of up to nine arsons at various sites last year. Both brothers are in custody awaiting trial.

A detective told Belfast Magistrates’ Court that police have linked 27 mast attacks to the wider series. The £2.7 million cost has been confirmed by statements from the affected companies.

The officer said there had been a significant reduction in mobile coverage across Belfast and that police could not feasibly protect the infrastructure from further attacks.

Defence barrister Turlough Madden argued his client faces only three arson charges, disputed DNA evidence and noted there is no CCTV footage connecting his client to the Annadale Embankment fire.

District Judge Anne Marshall refused bail, citing the risk of further offences. She said the widespread location of masts meant no exclusion zone could effectively prevent further arson.