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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Jilly Beattie

Bomb, gun and ammunition recovered by PSNI

A bomb, a handgun and ammunition have been seized following a two-day police search operation in Derry.

It came as part of an operation targeting dissident republican terrorist activity, which began in the Ballymagroarty area on Friday and encompassed an area spanning more than 38 acres.

Superintendent Gordon McCalmont said the items found posed a "serious and imminent risk to the community".

"This operation was designed specifically to find items we believed were being stored in this area and which posed a serious and imminent risk to the community," he said.

"They have thankfully now been removed and will be subject to rigorous forensic examination.

"The despicable criminals using this area for terrorist purposes are reckless and continually put our community at risk.

"Despite the constant threat posed by this dangerous minority, local police officers continue to provide a community-focused policing service to the people of Derry/Londonderry whilst simultaneously working to thwart their activities through operations like this one."

The senior PSNI officer also issued an appeal for information.

"Our chances of success are improved by support and information from the local community. Anything you know, or anything you have seen - share that information with us and help us put these criminals out of business," he said.

"You can call us on 101, 999 in an emergency or information can be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Justice Minister Naomi Long said: “Those intent on bringing Northern Ireland back to the dark days of violence have absolutely nothing to offer our community. They go against the democratic principles that the vast majority of people in our society support.

“Leaving such items anywhere, but in particular near a housing estate, poses a real danger to everyone who lives in the area.

“The police have undoubtedly saved lives today and their actions keep people safe. They do this without fear or favour, despite being under threat themselves. Their actions are in stark contrast to the callous and malicious behaviour of those who would seek to use potentially lethal weapons to control their own communities through fear and violence.

“We must all work together as a community to bring these people to justice. I would appeal to anyone with any information to contact the police on 101 or the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”

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