Security alert in Derry has now ended after a viable bomb was found in the Lettrshandoney area today
POLICE say the he security alert in Derry’s Lettershandoney has ended and families are now able to return to their homes.
Following two days of searching in the village, police located a viable bomb.
The PSNI have not yet said what type of device they found.
It was made safe by British Army Technical Officers and removed for forensic testing to see if has left any clues to the bomb maker.
Local police commander Supt Gordon McCalmont said: “I can confirm that a viable device has been recovered and will be taken away for further examination.
“I am well aware how frustrating it has been for those people who have had their lives disrupted and I thank them for their patience and understanding.
“I know from discussions with community representatives over the last few days that the majority of people understand that this level of policing operation was necessary to make sure lives were not at risk.
“When violent dissident criminals tell us that there is a device in the area we do not take chances.
“Conflicting and inaccurate information provided by those criminal elements prolonged this operation further.
“The blame lies squarely with those individuals who seem intent on creating fear and causing harm within our communities.
“I would appeal for anyone with information about this incident to please tell us. It is only with your help that we can make our communities safer.”
Police can be contacted on 101 or information can be passed anonymously through the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.