Northern Ireland

Bomb, handgun and ammunition discovered following search

Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said the items found posed a “serious and imminent risk to the community”.. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin
Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said the items found posed a “serious and imminent risk to the community”.. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said the items found posed a “serious and imminent risk to the community”.. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin

A bomb, a handgun and ammunition have been seized following a two-day police search operation in Derry.

It came as part of an operation targeting dissident republican terrorist activity, which began in the Ballymagroarty area on Friday and encompassed an area spanning more than 38 acres.

Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said the items found posed a “serious and imminent risk to the community”.

“This operation was designed specifically to find items we believed were being stored in this area and which posed a serious and imminent risk to the community,” he said.

“They have thankfully now been removed and will be subject to rigorous forensic examination.

“The despicable criminals using this area for terrorist purposes are reckless and continually put our community at risk.

“Despite the constant threat posed by this dangerous minority, local police officers continue to provide a community-focused policing service to the people of Derry whilst simultaneously working to thwart their activities through operations like this one.”

The senior PSNI officer also issued an appeal for information.

“Our chances of success are improved by support and information from the local community. Anything you know, or anything you have seen – share that information with us and help us put these criminals out of business,” he said.

“You can call us on 101, 999 in an emergency or information can be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”