Londonderry cemetery reopens after two semi-automatic weapons seized

A controlled explosion was also carried out on a car in the area of the City cemetery.

Just before noon a PSNI spokesman said: “A search was carried out this morning, but nothing further was found. We would like to thank the local community for their patience,” he said.

Earlier District Commander Superintendent Mark McEwan said as “part of a police investigation into violent dissident republican activity” a policing operation was undertaken yesterday in the grounds of the City Cemetery. 
“As a result of this operation police have recovered two semi-automatic handguns,” he added.

“These are weapons that are made and possessed with one purpose in mind and that is to kill or cause serious injury to people.

“Those involved are intent on carrying out attacks on police officers and the local community. I am thankful this morning to be able to confirm we have taken these weapons out of circulation.

“While the removal of these weapons is a success it is very worrying to think that, within the District, this is now three firearms we have taken out of circulation this week. I cannot say if these are linked but violent dissident republican activity is the main focus of our investigations into both seizures.

“I would appeal to anyone within the community who has any information about this activity or those who are involved in it to contact Detectives in Strand Road. I would also like to thank the community, this is a very sensitive area to have to carry out such an operation and shows the total disregard that those involved have for the people of this City. It has caused significant disruption and we will work hard this morning to try and bring the operation to a conclusion.”

UUP MLA Ross Hussey has condemned those who brought a weapon into the City Cemetery.

“It is absolutely appalling that anyone would violate the grounds of the City Cemetery by bringing a weapon into its confines,” he said. “They are beneath contempt. This has once again caused distress to the local community and the families who have loved ones buried in the cemetery.

“Given the context of the discovery of an armalite in Strabane last week which was linked to the ‘new’ IRA, this is a worrying development, and I will be seeking urgent clarification from the PSNI if they believe that these two discoveries are linked in any way.

“I would urge anyone who has any information to contact the PSNI immediately.”