Four men have been arrested as part of a police investigation into historic physical abuse at a youth centre in Co Down.
The men, aged between 42 and 57, were detained by detectives from the PSNI’s public protection unit (PPU).
The allegations relate to a continuing investigation into abuse at the former Rathgael facility in Bangor.
A fifth man has been arrested on suspicion of blackmail at the Lakewood youth facility, also in Bangor.
A PSNI spokeswoman said the men were assisting police with inquiries.
The investigation into Rathgael and Lakewood was started on January 13th.
A PSNI spokeswoman said: “Officers will be interviewing and speaking with anyone who can assist them with their inquiries to help bring those responsible to justice.
“Police would appeal to anyone who believes they were the victim of abuse or anyone who witnessed abuse or with any information to contact Public Protection Unit detectives.”
PA