Suspected gun, silencer and bomb parts found in Derry searches targeting dissident New IRA
Police investigating the New IRA have recovered suspected munitions and arrested two men following a search operation in Co Londonderry.
Among the items found in Ballymagroarty on Tuesday were a suspected firearm, a silencer and a quantity of suspected ammunition.
Component parts of pipe bombs and other improvised explosive devices were also discovered in the searches.
Police said the items are now subject to forensic examination.
The two men aged 36 and 59 who were arrested under the Terrorism Act were later released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.
A spokesperson for the PSNI said they believe the items may have been used to attack officers.
“The seizure of these suspected munitions is hugely significant," they said.
"We believe these would have been used in a violent attack on police with the aim of killing or, at the very least, causing serious injury.
“The fact that these items were found in a residential area also underlines the recklessness of those involved. It also shows the utter contempt they have for their own communities.
“No community deserves to live under this threat.
“We are carrying out further searches in the area this evening and we understand and appreciate the disruption this will cause, but I want to reassure you of this - our presence in the area and activity we carry out is about keeping people safe. That is our priority.
“We will endeavour to work through this operation as quickly as we can, and we will keep you updated with any developments.”
They added: “Violent dissident republicans are immersed in a campaign to kill police. They are constantly trying to undermine the work of police to build safer communities.
“Every day police officers come into work, they go out into communities like Ballymagroarty and they work to build relationships and tackle the issues that matter to local people.
“Support and information from the local community is vital to fighting the scourge of terrorism. Anything you know, or anything you have seen - share that information with us and help us put these criminals out of business."
Information can be passed on via the number 101.
Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.