A church in County Tyrone has been forced to cancel Sunday Mass due to a security threat.

Police were concerned that congregants in Omagh may be in danger following a car hijacking nearby.

Three masked men, carrying guns, forced a motorist to drive a suspicious object to a police station, near to St Mary’s Church.

The incident occurred at around 10pm on Saturday night.

Nearby homes were evacuated as a result of the “misguided and senseless” act. 

Two men have been arrested, aged 56 and 29. 

Both search operations were carried out under the Terrorism Act, and two vehicles have been seized for forensic investigation.

Condemning the incident, Inspector Will Brown said: "The misguided and senseless actions of those responsible have caused disruption in the local community.

“Our thoughts are with the driver, who was, understandably, badly shaken by the ordeal.”

Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 2015 of 06/05/23.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org