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Monaghan Street in Newry has reopened following an overnight security alert believed to be at the Sinn Fein office on the street.
The street was sealed off by police until just before 7.30am. Police received a report of a suspicious object in the area shortly before midnight on Sunday 5 October.
ATO attended and examined the object which has been declared a viable explosive device. The device has been made safe and removed for further examination. Cordons have been removed and Monaghan Street has now re-opened.
Inspector Walker said: “We’re grateful this morning to local people for their patience while we worked to make the area safe. An investigation is now underway and detectives would ask anyone with information, or who may have captured dash-cam or CCTV footage from the area which could help with their investigation, to call them at Ardmore on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1648 05/10/25."
You can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org
Sinn Fein has condemned the incident with MP Dáire Hughes calling it an attack on democracy.
The Newry and Armagh MP who shares the office with MLA, Liz Kimmins was speaking after the police confirmed the device was discovered outside the Sinn Féin office.
"This is a disgraceful and cowardly act designed to endanger lives and cause major disruption," said Mr Hughes.
"To those behind this attack, Sinn Féin will not be intimidated.
“We will continue to represent the community without fear or hesitation.
"Our immediate focus is the safety of local residents, our staff, and all who live and work in the area. We are fully supporting the efforts of the police.
"We call on anyone with information to come forward immediately and assist police in bringing those responsible to justice."
