Device found in Co Down security alert ‘suspected to be part of rocket launcher’, councillor claims

The security alert in Seaforde ended late on Saturday night and a number of residents who had been evacuated have now been allowed to return to their homes.

The Newcastle Road has also been re-opened.

A suspicious object, which was examined by ATO, has been taken away for further forensic examination.

Inspector Steven Weatherald said: “I would like to thank the residents in the Newcastle Road area for their patience as we worked to make the area safe.

“I would ask anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in and around the Newcastle Road to contact police on 101, quoting reference 1015 30/01/21, or submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”

Ulster Unionist councillor Alan Lewis said: “I can confirm that following tonight’s security alert on the Newcastle Road Seaforde, a suspected key component for a RPG (rocket propelled grenade) has been recovered.

“This is undoubtedly a worrying development. Firstly I would like to commend the police and army on their swift and diligent response.

“Secondly however , I question what those mindless criminals behind this behaviour have to offer society. This incident just adds to a series of dissident republican activities in the South Down area.

“This puts a horse and cart through the theory dangled by those advocating the avoidance of an Irish hard border would deter future republican terrorism. The people of South Down don’t want or support these actions and I appeal to anyone in the local area with information to please contact the police.”

SDLP MLA for South Down, Colin McGrath has said the suspicious device is very concerning and condemned those behind such a senseless act.

He added: “This device was found by a good spirited local resident who was clearing rubbish along the side of the road.”

“If this device turns out to have been dangerous the repercussions could have been devastating. Such devices are a thing of our past and have no place in our modern society.”

“The inconvenience and impact of this on the local community will be considerable and I utterly condemn those that placed that device.”

Meanwhile police said the B66 Bann Road, between Agivey and Bendooragh, in the Ballymoney area, has been closed in both directions following the discovery of a suspicious object. Diversions are in place whilst the object is examined.