Dissident republican terrorist mortar part found in PSNI security alert

Police believe it belonged to dissident republican terrorists.

The suspicious device was found following a security over the weekend.

District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “Following forensic examination we can confirm the device is suspected to be a component part of a mortar although no explosives were found within the device.

“Whilst at this stage, it is too early to attribute ownership to any particular grouping, it is my belief that dissident republican terrorists are responsible. The matter remains under investigation and I would appeal for anyone with information to contact detectives on 101 or anonymously through the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”

Slieve Croob Ulster Unionist Councillor Alan Lewis condemned those behind the find, which he said was left at the entrance to Tievenadarragh Wood on the main A24 Wood.

He understood that what had been found was “the head of a rocket” or a “viable device” but that it was not an immediately threat without the launcher

Councillor Lewis says: “I praise the quick and efficient response of local police who have the area sealed off, maintaining the cordon for several hours. I commend the diligence of the local resident who spotted the device and altered emergency services and thank the ATO for their swift actions, ensuring the device was safety removed and retained for forensic purposes”

“This device was left on the side of a busy road, it demonstrates the stupidity of those responsible, I question, just who do these people think they are? why do they believe they have a right to hold this community to ransom.

“Terrorism always finds a cause to attach itself, those seeking to ignite chaos and mayhem should reflect on the long-term realities of their aims, tit for tat violence reenergises age old conflict, no one will benefit from rising tension and public disorder. Those responsible are Neanderthals, plastic soldiers with romantic fantasies of days gone by. History teaches us that their so-called war ends in one of two ways, a box or a cell, just what are they trying to achieve”.

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