Two arrested as police open investigation into disappearance of 21-year-old man last seen in Maghera

Police have launched a criminal investigation into a missing 21-year-old man.

Lee Johnston from the Coleraine area was last seen at around 4pm on Saturday October 7 in the Mullagh Park area of Maghera.

A 31-year-old woman and a 33-year-old man have been arrested in relation to Mr Johnston’s disappearance, and police say they are co-operating with the investigation.

Police said they are becoming increasingly concerned for the safety of Mr Johnston, who has links to both Ballymena and Coleraine.

Mid Ulster District Commander, Superintendent Michael O’Loan said police are renewing their appeal for information.

“I am appealing directly to Lee to make contact with the police, family or friends so that we know you are safe and well,” he said.

“Lee was first reported missing to police on Friday evening, October 13 and it is out of character for him not to have been in contact with his family since he was last seen.

“He has short brown hair, blue eyes and around five foot nine inches in height, and was last seen wearing a blue hooded-top and tracksuit bottoms.

“Officers continuing to investigate Lee’s disappearance have made two arrests, a woman aged 31, and a man aged 33. They both continue to help police with their enquiries at this time.

“I am appealing to anyone who was travelling through the Mullagh Park area in Maghera between 3pm and 4pm on Saturday, October 7 to think if they saw Lee or anything unusual.

“If you did, please report it to police immediately.”