IED event in Belfast, Newry area, United Kingdom on Thu 20th June 2024

A crude but viable pipe bomb has been removed following a security alert which caused major disruption in Newry.

The alarm was raised at about 8.20am on Thursday and ended around 9:30pm.

Ammunition technical officers carried out a controlled explosion on the device with the aid of a robot.

It has been described as a viable suspected pipe bomb, and was removed and taken away for further forensic examination.

Inspector Kelly Gibson said the security alert caused major disruption.

“This security alert on one of Newry’s busiest streets has caused major disruption to local businesses and resulted in some people being evacuated from their homes today as we conducted this public safety operation,” she said.

“We would like to thank them for their understanding and patience as we conducted our investigations.

“Our inquiries are continuing and anyone with any information is asked to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 294 of June 20.”

Newry and Armagh Sinn Fein Westminster election candidate Dáire Hughes said the suspicious object had caused the closure of the nearby Sinn Fein office, understood to be some 30 metres away.

“The security alert has caused the closing of businesses and offices along Monaghan Street including the Sinn Fein office,” he said.

“Police are investigating a suspicious object. This security alert has caused the closing of Monaghan Street and disgraceful disruption to many.

“It has caused chaos for residents and gridlock throughout the city. Those behind it have demonstrated a total disregard for the community.”