Railway workers 'threatened' with suspected firearm in Lurgan

Q Newsdesk

Maintenance work has been halted on a railway line in Lurgan after workers were allegedly approached by a gunman.

It happened shortly after 11 this morning at the tracks on Lake Street.

Police say the man threatened the workers before making off.

Translink says its suspended the repair operation in the interest of its engineers' safety and welfare.

Chief Inspector Barney O’Connor said:

“We understand that at around 11.10am this morning a number of individuals carrying out work on the railway line at Lake Street were approached by a male who was allegedly armed with a firearm. This male threatened the workers before making off.

We are currently working with Translink and I would appeal to anyone who witnessed what happened this morning or who has any information that could assist police to please call 101, quoting reference 480 02/03/19."

Local MLA Carla Lockhart said:

"Everyone will be aware that the railway line is closed for upgrade with £11.9 million investment yet we have despicable individuals who today approached the workers on the track and threatened them with a firearm."

"These people are not representative.  The PSNI is dealing with the situation appropriately. I am liaising with them."  

"The railway will remain closed for the duration of the weekend as previously arranged.  Anyone with any information please come forward to the PSNI.  The people of the area will not allow this small nucleus of people to drag Lurgan back to the dark days.”