Security alert ongoing in Castlewellan

By Q Radio News

A security alert is continuing in Castlewellan this afternoon following the discovery of a suspicious object. 

It was found in the Priest's Road area last night.

District Commander of Newry, Mourne and Down, Superintendent Jane Humphries said: “The alert follows the report of a suspicious object in the Priests Road area last night (Wednesday 18th September).

"A public safety operation and a cordon are in place. Diversions are in operation as part of the Ardnabannon Road and Castlewellan Road remains closed. 

"I want to thank the community for their patience while we work to make the area safe and I would ask for their further co-operation as the investigation continues .”

Security alert continues in south Down. PSNI latest 👇 pic.twitter.com/J35sERL0n3

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) September 19, 2019

Ulster Unionist councillor Alan Lewis said the suspicious object had been spotted by a local resident who raised the alarm.

He said: "I praise the quick and efficient response of local police who have the area sealed off and have been maintaining the cordon for a number of hours. I commend the diligence of the local resident who spotted the device and altered emergency services.

"If, as expected, a device has been placed, those responsible are reckless, mindless idiots with no regard for public safety. In 2019 we should be far beyond such activity where people expect to live in peace without fear of harm.

"Local residents have undoubtedly been inconvenienced and disrupted from their daily routine. The local community should be allowed to go about their lives without the fear or threat of violence."