Lasers shone at aircrafts flying over Newry and Kilkeel “could result in a catastrophe”

Police are appealing to those shining laser pens towards aircrafts to desist, following recent reports of this activity.

Speaking to Newry Times, Sergeant Paul Connolly said, “Last week, police received three reports of laser pens being shone directly at pilots of commercial airlines.

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“On Wednesday night (31 July), it was reported an incident occured shortly after 10:35pm at the Newry Street area of Kilkeel when a laser pen was shone towards an aircraft.

“In the early hours of Friday morning (2 August), two similar incidents were reported at the Harbour Road area of Kilkeel at around 00:05am and at the Abbey Way, Ballynacraig area of Newry shortly before 00:10am.

He continued, “Enquiries are ongoing and we are investigating a possible link between all three incidents.

“Thankfully no one was injured or vision impaired as a result of this extremely dangerous and reckless behaviour.

“Not only is it an offence under the Air Navigation Order to endanger aircraft but it is highly irresponsible and dangerous.

“Lasers can cause temporary blindness and where pilots are concerned, this could result in a catastrophe and possibly lead to significant loss of life.

“Those involved in this type of activity need to be mindful of the impact which their behaviour could have.

“Those involved could face charges of being in possession of a dangerous weapon.

“If you use lasers in this way, you must be prepared to face the consequences.

“Our enquiries are continuing into these incidents and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in these areas to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 2138 31/7/19.

Sergeant Connolly added, “Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

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Posted by NewryTimes News on Aug 6 2019. Filed under Community, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry