Craigavon security alert
28 Feb 2010
Police received reports on Saturday 27 February that a suspicious object had been left on the Tullygally Road. The road was closed and resources were immediately tasked. A further report was received that the device had disappeared and enquiries were instigated to establish whether that was indeed the case.
As those enquiries were ongoing, officers on cordon duties reported that a suspected mortar had been fired at Brownlow police station. Resources were redeployed from the Tullygally Road to minimise the ongoing risk to the public as the device had not been located and to officers who remained on cordon duties.
Police later confirmed the presence of the original suspect device on the Tullygally Road and the road was once again closed. The object was examined and subsequently declared a hoax.
Throughout the alert members of the public were advised to obey the road closure signs, not to approach any suspicious object, but to exercise a common sense approach by moving away and informing police immediately.
Chief Inspector Jason Murphy, Area Commander for Craigavon said, "I have no doubt that this was a deliberate ploy to lure police officers into the area. It was an absolutely mindless act and totally inexplicable.
“We’ve been working very hard with the local community here in Craigavon to deliver a normal policing service, something which the majority of right minded people want and deserve.
“The actions of a disparate few, exhibited by the mindless violence of Saturday night, are in stark contrast to the efforts of police whose only concerns were ensuring the safety of local people and upholding law and order.
“This sort of incident merely serves to damage the image and reputation of the Craigavon community and does nothing to enhance or further any cause. But police will not be deterred from working with local communities to deliver the quality of service that local people crave. We will continue to work alongside our partners at multi agency and community level to build increasing confidence in the Police Service.
I would appeal to the residents of Drumbeg and Meadowbrook to develop a positive working relationship with police to create a better mutual understanding. I am happy to meet with residents groups or local representatives to explain police actions on Saturday night. It is unfortunate that the actions of the few have such an impact on the majority of residents who are law abiding citizens."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police in Craigavon on 0845 600 8000. Alternatively, information about crime can be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111.
