PSNI release images of Derry ‘dissident’ handguns
Police have released images of two semi-automatic handguns which were found within the grounds of Derry City Cemetery, as part of a police operation targeting dissident republicans.
The discovery led to a major security alert on Wednesday, during which a number of controlled explosions were carried out.
It’s believed the firearms – a Glock Pistol and a Sig Sauer handgun with ammunition – were inside a car.
Police said they could have been used to carry out deadly attacks on officers and the local community, but have now been taken out of circulation.
A link between this discovery and that of an Armalite-type assault rifle in Strabane, Co Tyrone, earlier this week is being investigated.
Alert at city cemetery over. Search carried out this morning, nothing further found. We want to thank local people for their patience.
— PSNI DC&S District (@PSNIDCSDistrict) January 28, 2016
Superintendent Mark McEwan said: “While the removal of these weapons is a success it is very worrying to think that, within the district, this is now three firearms we have taken out of circulation this week.
“I cannot say if these are linked but violent dissident republican activity is the main focus of our investigations into both seizures.”
The alert was sparked by the discovery of a suspicious object at the City Cemetery on Lone Moor Road on Wednesday afternoon.
Searches continued into the evening and overnight, causing significant disruption to people in the local area.
“I would also like to thank the community, this is a very sensitive area to have to carry out such an operation and shows the total disregard that those involved have for the people of this city,” continued Mark McEwan.
“It has caused significant disruption and we will work hard this morning to try and bring the operation to a conclusion.”
Police on Monday blamed the ‘New IRA’ dissident republican faction after finding an assault-rifle during searches of an industrial estate in Strabane.
They said the gun was moved to the area with the intention of carrying out an attempt to murder officers.
Speaking after the latest discovery, Superintendent Mark McEwan continued: “These are weapons that are made and possessed with one purpose in mind and that is to kill or cause serious injury to people.
“Those involved are intent on carrying out attacks on police officers and the local community.
“I am thankful this morning to be able to confirm we have taken these weapons out of circulation.”
He asked anyone with information to contact the PSNI.
