LAST UPDATE | 19 Feb 2023

PSNI OFFICERS REMAIN at the scene of a security alert in the Corrody Road area of Derry after a ‘suspect device’ found yesterday was confirmed to be dangerous.

Police and Ammunition Technical Officers attended the scene and declared the object a ‘viable device’ which has been taken away for further examination.

Derry City and Strabane Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Nigel Goddard said:

“A number of cordons remain in place as police continue to search the area as part of our investigation.”

“This explosive device was recklessly left in a public area, just metres away from houses and a sports area where a number of children were playing football.

The device is believed to be linked to a report of an attempted hijacking in the nearby Hollymount Park estate at approximately 9.35pm on Friday night.

“Four people have been arrested and a number of searches have been carried out by detectives investigating this incident and an attempted hijacking on Friday evening. They remain in custody assisting us with our enquiries,” Goddard said.

“Our focus remains firmly on keeping people safe against the threat posed by violent groups. No matter what level of involvement people have with any criminal or terrorist activity, we will investigate and where appropriate, put people before the courts to answer for their actions.”

Investigations are ongoing. 

Police received a report on Friday that a delivery driver had been approached by three masked men who tried to hijack his car. The masked men were armed with what is believed to be knives and a firearm.”

The suspects ran off in the direction of Corrody Road where the device was located close, the PSNI said.