Mobile phone services have been disrupted after a mast was attacked in west Belfast.
It is understood an O2 mast in the Falls Road area was targeted in an arson attack at the end of last month.
The mast provides 2G, 3G and 4G connectivity for residents and business in the Mica Drive and Beechmount Grove area and up to 5,000 people may experience disruption.
The mobile phone giant said that while other cell sites can provide connectivity services at the Royal Victoria Hospital, which is nearby, other customers may be impacted.
O2 say that attacks 5G network sites have increased, with some linked to conspiracy theories about the coronavirus pandemic.
Engineers are currently working to restore the network.
Emma Evans, Head of Network Experience at O2 said: “These attacks on important network infrastructure represent criminal damage and are putting the community at risk.
"The conspiracy theories are not based on any recognised science or logic, and we are working with police to find the perpetrators.
"They harm the ability of vulnerable people to keep in touch with loved ones and prevent emergency services from effectively responding to those in need.”
