Shots have been fired at police officers by suspected dissident republicans in Derry.
Police responded to a report that a car had been abandoned in a grassy area off the Glen Road last night.
After arranging for the stolen car to be recovered, the officers were shot at as they returned to their vehicle. No one was injured.
Supt Chris Yates said: “I have no doubt this was an attempt to kill a police officer. We are very fortunate that no one was injured tonight.” Police have appealed for witnesses to the gun attack.
SDLP MP Mark Durkan lives near where the attack happened.
“We must all unite in rejecting the violence, the ways and the arguments of those who would carry out such an attack,” he said.
“We must also all unite in offering our support to the entire policing family who are under threat at this time. Indeed, this appalling attack demonstrates just how vulnerable any police officer can be.
“No matter what other issues, differences or difficulties there are, one solid and compelling message that must go out to the so-called dissidents is that we are not standing still here in Derry,” Mr Durkan added.
PA