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The security alert at Drumgullion Avenue in Newry ended around midnight with residents allowed to return home. Homes had been evacuated following a report of a suspicious object around 3pm. Families with young children were out of their homes for around 9 hours. The nearby Whitegates centre was opened for residents to wait in.
Last evening Newry City Councillor Killian Feehan spoke of his concern regarding the major disruption for residents evacuated on New Years Day.
Cllr Feehan said: “Residents in Drumgullion Avenue are experiencing significant disruption following the discovery of a suspicious object today. A number of homes have been evacuated forcing people to make emergency arrangements on New Year’s Day - it’s totally unacceptable.
“This is the last thing that anyone in this community wants or needs. I would urge residents to bear with emergency services as they make the area safe as quickly as possible.
“We will continue to liaise with police to ensure that local people can return home as soon as possible.”
Police thanked residents for their understanding. Inspector McCormick said: “Police received a report shortly before 2.50pm on Monday, 1st January that a suspicious object had been left in the area.
"The object, which has been declared as a viable device, has been removed and taken away for further forensic examinations.
Newry City Cllr Geraldine Kearns speaking after residents returned home said “A number of homes in the area were evacuated as officers conducted a public safety operation in the area. Residents have now returned to their homes and police would like to thank everyone for their understanding."
She added “ I can’t praise enough those who aided those residents who had to leave their homes due to this incident. My thanks especially to all involved with the Meadow & Armagh Road Community Association/ Whitegates community centre for your help”
MP Mickey Brady has condemned those responsible. “I condemn those responsible for this incident, they caused fear and disruption for the community, with many local residents forced to be evacuated from their homes on New years day.
“There is absolutely no place for these actions and no support for those involved.
“The people responsible for this incident need to get off the back of our community.
“I would appeal for anyone with information to contact the police.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1310 of 01/01/24.
A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk or you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org
