The attack on police during a security alert in Strabane earlier this week has been described as “absolutely disgraceful.”
Tom Buchanan, DUP MLA in West Tyrone, was speaking after British Army technical officers carried out two controlled explosions on a Donegal-registered car abandoned in Ballycolman estate in the town.
Around 30 families were moved from their homes and they were allowed to return after “nothing untoward” was found.
During Sunday night’s alert, police were attacked with paint bombs and pieces of masonry.
Condemning the incident, Mr Buchanan called all representatives in town to challenge those who believed they are above the law.
Mr Buchanan said: ‘The police officers who were attacked within Ballycolman were helping ensure the safety of those living in the area by examining a suspicious and potentially dangerous vehicle.
“It is absolutely disgraceful that they should be subjected to attack with paint bombs and masonry.
“This is not the first occasion where the police have been subject to attack within Ballymcolman.
“Only back in February there was a similar attack when police were dealing with a sensitive issue following a sudden death and last November they were targeted in a pipe bomb attack.
“There is a clear pattern of attacks against the police within Ballycolman and it Is time that all representatives in Strabane challenged those who believe they are above the law.”
Mr Buchanan concluded: “There must be a clear statement that attacks against the police are wrong and can never be justified.”
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