Improvised weapon recovered in west Belfast alert designed to kill or injure PSNI officers

By Q Radio News

The security alert in the Upper Dunmurry Lane area of west Belfast has now ended. 

After an extensive search, ATO have now finished examining a suspicious object discovered in the area and have declared it to be an improvised weapon.  This has now been made safe and has been taken away for further forensic examination.

Local Policing Commander Chief Inspector Kellie McMillan said: "While we believe this weapon was designed to kill or seriously injure police officers serving the local community in west Belfast, it was left in a position where there is every possibility that it could have killed or maimed members of the public. Those responsible have shown callous disregard for the local community and the police officers serving that community.

“I would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding during the course of what has been a protracted security operation. I understand it has caused significant disruption to people in the area, but our main concern throughout the operation was the safety of the community. Responsibility for this incident lies squarely on the reckless individuals who placed this device in a built up residential area. The overwhelming number of people in the community do not want this type of activity and we as a police service will continue to work to bring those responsible before the courts.”

“Detectives from Terrorism Investigation Unit have now commenced an investigation into this incident and I am appealing for anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the Upper Dunmurry Lane area in the past number of days to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 363 10/12/18.  Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”