Gun found hidden in bushes near community centre

The weapon was recovered near the centre in the Ballycolman estate in Strabane.

It has been removed for forensic examination by officers from the PSNI’s serious crime branch.

PSNI Detective Inspector Andy Workman said: “It is reckless in the extreme to leave such an item in an area near to a community centre which is frequented by all members of the community, including children.

“Thankfully this danger has now been removed and I would appeal to anyone in the area who knows anything about the circumstances in which this item came to be there, or who has any information about criminal activity in the area in general to contact police on 101.

“Alternatively, information can also be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”