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Viable pipe bomb device discovered in Newry

A security alert was ongoing on Wednesday evening in Newry's Barcroft Road area.
A security alert was ongoing on Wednesday evening in Newry's Barcroft Road area. A security alert was ongoing on Wednesday evening in Newry's Barcroft Road area.

RESIDENTS were  evacuated from their homes following a security alert in Newry on Wednesday evening after a viable pipe bomb device was discovered.

The object was found in the Barcroft Park area of the town and the area was cordoned off by police as investigations began.

Inspector Heatley said: “Shortly before 5:30pm, police received a report of a suspicious object located in the front garden of a property in the area. Officers attended and the object, which has been declared as a viable pipe bomb device, has been taken away for further forensic examination.



“A number of homes were evacuated during the public safety operation, with residents affected now returning to their homes. We would like to thank the local community for their cooperation and assistance."



The Barcroft Community Centre at nearby Dorans Hill was opened to accommodate residents forced to evacuate. 

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins said the alert had caused "serious disruption" for residents.

"Those responsible for this disruption have no regard for the people of Barcroft and anyone who has any information which can assist the investigation should bring it forward to the police."

Police appealed for information.

Inspector Heatley added: “Enquiries are continuing and we would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this incident is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1525 01/02/23. You can submit a report online using the 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/.”