While they did appear to abandon (presently) taking down the colossus that is Facebook, it was reported that they did hack into defence and security networks based in Finland, Israel and Portugal. Perhaps their harbingers of doom were purposed to mislead. Admittedly, it does seem contrary to their agenda, but their actions could be a matter of priorities.
And let's face it: even though they claim to have the people's interests in mind, LulzSec and Anonymous are cyber terrorists. Intentionally inciting widespread consternation is spreading terror. One could argue that their goal was to create fear.
Never underestimate groups like LulzSec. They may be more devious than most think.
I live right near Ireland, the news wouldn't say someone's been caught if it isn't true. Would they now? And he didn't pay for it, he hacked into it, got caught, then arrested. Don't you listen to the 8:00am news?