Newry Security Alert: Police Continue to Appeal For Information | Newry Times

Police in Newry are continuing to appeal for information after a security alert in Newry this week.

A report of a suspicious object found in the Ashgrove Road area of the city was made to police at around 3:30 pm on Saturday, 20 February, 2021.

Police and ATO attended the scene, and ATO carried out a controlled explosion.

At this time, it is believed to have been a viable device. 

Newry, Mourne & Down District Commander, Superintendent Norman Haslett said, “As part of our public safety operation, a number of homes were evacuated.

“Some of the residents affected made use of the local leisure centre, as facilitated by the local Council.

“Our enquiries are continuing and we are working to establish who is responsible for what can only be described as a reckless act.

“This device could easily have detonated, or have been picked up by anyone, including children.

“Someone could have suffered a serious injury.

“As we continue with our investigation, I want to thank everyone inconvenienced by the alert.

“In particular, I want to thank the 15 families who had to leave their homes as we worked to make the scene safe,” he added.

Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins condemned those responsible for the security alert.

The Newry and Armagh MLA said, “I condemn those responsible for this security alert.

“This device put residents’ lives at risk.

“Families have had to be evacuated from their homes on a cold winter afternoon as a result of this alert.”

The MLA continued, “Those responsible for this device have nothing to offer and this is an attack on the entire community at a time when we should all be working together in the face of the public health crisis caused by COVID.

She added, “Anyone who may have information about this incident should contact the police.”

Superintendent Haslett is appealing to anyone who has information that could help the police investigation to call 101 and quote reference number 1114 of 20/02/21.

A report can also be submitted online or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Keep up to date with all the latest Northern Ireland Coronavirus / Covid-19 news HERE.

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Posted by NewryTimes News on Feb 24 2021. 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