Write a commentA security alert in the Violet Hill Avenue area of Newry which left several people out of their homes for the night has now ended. Police have said that a child picked up what they believe to be component parts of an explosive device.
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A controlled explosion was carried out on the object.
Police received a report that a suspicious object had been found in the area around 3:45pm yesterday, 24 November and they then evacuated number of homes and put cordons in place.
Army technical officers attended and carried out a controlled explosion on what is believed at this stage to be parts for an explosive device and a number of items have been taken away for forensic examination.
Speaking about the incident Superintendent Jane Humphries said: “We believe these to be component parts of an explosive device. When such items are left in a public area they can be innocently handled by anyone and on this occasion it was picked up by a child."
Superintendent Humphries continued: "I want to thank the public for their patience as we conducted our enquiries and worked to make the scene safe. I appreciate the disruption this has caused, however, when it comes to keeping people safe we do not take chances, I can only reinforce to everyone that if you see anything suspicious please do not lift it or approach it. Also if anyone saw anything suspicious in relation to this latest incident please get the information to us”.
Anyone with information can call the PSNI on 101, quoting reference 1108 24/11/19. Alternatively, information can also be provided confidentially by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
