Police patrols stepped up after ‘threatening message’ sent to schools

By Jonathan McCambridge (Press Association)

Police have stepped up patrols after an email was sent to a number of schools and businesses in Co Antrim.

The PSNI said it will be engaging with those affected.

One school posted on social media that pupils were being kept indoors with the doors locked.

A police spokesperson said: “Police received reports today, Tuesday May 19, of an email having been sent to multiple schools and businesses in the County Antrim area.

“Officers are investigating the contents included within this email, and are conducting a number of inquiries.”Reassurance patrols have also been increased in the areas affected, in order help keep our communities safe.

“We would urge anyone to report anything suspicious to police on our 101 number, always 999 in an emergency.”

The spokesperson said inquiries are continuing.

North Antrim MP Jim Allister said: “Any threat directed at children, parents, teachers or school staff is utterly reprehensible.

“I welcome the swift response from the PSNI in investigating these threats and carrying out reassurance patrols.

“Those responsible for this malicious hoax, if that is indeed what it proves to be, must be identified and dealt with robustly.”

SDLP councillor Roisin Lynch said the email contained a “threatening message”.

She said it had caused “understandable fear and anxiety among school communities and families”.

Ms Lynch said: “It was a deeply sinister act clearly designed to cause disruption and distress and it is difficult to understand what could motivate someone to target children, parents and school staff in this way.

“I welcome the swift response from police, emergency services and schools to reassure pupils and parents and ensure people’s safety.

“No parent should have to fear for their child’s safety when sending them to school and no young person should have their education disrupted by threats of this nature.

“I would encourage anyone with information to co-operate fully with the police investigation.

“I hope this incident is confirmed to be a hoax as soon as possible, the person behind this is apprehended and that school communities can return to normal without any further disruption or concern.”

In a statement for parents on social media, St Benedict’s College in Randalstown said the matter was “not being treated as a serious threat”.

The statement added: “However, it is being addressed at a senior level, and we will continue to follow all guidance provided.

“As a precaution, school doors will remain locked throughout the day as normal.

“Pupils will remain indoors until we receive further guidance from the PSNI.

“The safety and wellbeing of our students and staff remains our highest priority.

“We will keep parents informed and will notify you immediately should the situation change.”