New IRA counter-terrorism operation in Derry finds nothing during search

PSNI and bomb disposal teams searched property in Letterkenny Road area

epa07261133 (FILE) - Northern Ireland's PSNI crest outside Antrim police station in Antrim, Northern Ireland, 02 May 2014 (reissued 04 January 2019). British media reports on 04 January 2019 state Police Service of Northern Ireland, PSNI has asked up to 1,000 officers to be deployed in Northern Ireland as a reinforcement in case of a no-deal Brexit. Authorities fear violence could occur if a hard border will be established between EU member Ireland and Northern Ireland.  EPA/PAUL MCERLANE

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has said it did not find anything during a search of a property in Derry as part of its investigation into the New IRA.

The PSNI’s Terrorism Investigation Unit conducted a “proactive policing operation” in the Letterkenny Road area.

Detective Inspector O’Flaherty said: “We understand the impact operational activity can have upon the day-to-day lives of local residents, please be assured we seek to maximise safety and minimise any disruption with any planned activity. Our primary focus is keeping our community safe.

“We are grateful for the continued support of local communities as we continue our work to disrupt those involved in terrorism-related activity. We encourage anyone with information, or concerns, to contact us on 101.”

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Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

The New IRA has been the most active of the dissident republican outfits in Northern Ireland in recent years.

The terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland was recently raised from substantial to severe, meaning an attack is highly likely. – PA