The Five Demands

Mortar bomb found at Derry PSNI station (UTV)

A mortar bomb has been found at the centre of a security alert at a police station in Londonderry.

Almost 1,000 people were evacuated from their homes overnight as police sealed off the streets around the Strand Road PSNI station.

Army bomb experts attended and made the device safe.

Speaking about the find, Superintendent Stephen Cargin said there had been a complete disregard for innocent lives by those individuals who left the device in the popular residential area.

“Close to 1,000 people had to leave their homes last night because of the misguided actions of the people responsible for this incident,” he said.

“It is only by good fortune that we are not talking about loss of life or serious damage to property.

“While the device will be forensically examined in due course it is safe to say that the intent here was to kill or injure and create fear within the community.”

The police cordons have been reduced in the area and the only road currently affected is Lawrence Hill, which remains closed to traffic.

All other residents have been allowed to return to their homes.

Templemore Sports Complex and Brooke Park are available to anyone still evacuated.

The people of Derry do not want this happening in their name.

Maeve McLaughlin, SF
SDLP Foyle MLA Pat Ramsey has strongly condemned those behind the attack.

“Following the harrowing events of yesterday and the terrible suffering thrust upon the McCrory family, residents in the Lawrence Hill area have been forced to evacuate their homes following the discovery of a mortar-type device close to the Strand Road police station, which had the capacity to cause catastrophic damage and suffering in our city,” he said.

“Those responsible for today’s disruption must know that they will not break the spirit of this city and its people – we have endured too much to allow anyone to attempt to bring the past back to our streets.

“I attended the community vigil this morning to support the family of Barry McCrory who was brutally murdered yesterday, and the people who attended are clear in their message – we will not go back.”

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Maeve McLaughlin welcomed that the device was dealt with and that no one was harmed.

“Whatever group was behind this incident they need to reflect on the political realities of Ireland in 2013,” she said.

“We have to ensure that the peace and political processes continue to strengthen in spite of the wreckers.”

Alliance Justice spokesperson Stewart Dickson MLA also joined in the condemnation of the attack.

“Those responsible for this mortar bomb have no regards for the lives of others. Anybody could have been seriously injured or killed had it exploded,” he said.

“I would like to pay tribute to the police and army officers who put their lives at risk to protect the public during this security alert. Their bravery stands in stark contrast to the evil actions of those responsible for this mortar bomb.

“If anybody has any information about this device then I would urge them to contact the police.”

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