Sinn Féin Office Targeted in Newry with Explosive Device
A viable explosive device, described as a pipe bomb, was discovered outside the Sinn Féin constituency office in Newry city centre. The office is shared by Newry and Armagh MP Dáire Hughes and Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins. The incident has been widely condemned as an attack on democracy.
Details of the Incident
The suspicious object was reported to the PSNI on Sunday night on Monaghan Street. Army ammunition technical officers (ATO) were dispatched to the scene and declared the object a viable explosive device. The device was subsequently made safe and removed for further examination. A police cordon was in place overnight but has since been removed, and the area has been reopened to traffic and pedestrians.
Dáire Hughes MP described the incident as a "disgraceful and cowardly act designed to endanger lives and cause major disruption." He added, "To those behind this attack, Sinn Féin will not be intimidated." He emphasized the party's commitment to continue representing the community without fear or hesitation and prioritized the safety of local residents and staff.
Reactions and Condemnation
First Minister Michelle O’Neill condemned the "cowardly attack" and offered her support to Dáire Hughes MP, Liz Kimmins MLA, and their team. In a statement, she asserted, "There is absolutely no place for this kind of behaviour in our society" and affirmed that Sinn Féin would not be deterred from its work.
UUP deputy leader Robbie Butler and SDLP Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty also condemned the incident, highlighting the abhorrence of violence and intimidation. They expressed their support for Minister Kimmins and MP Daire Hughes.
Police Investigation
The PSNI is currently investigating the incident and has appealed to the public for assistance. Inspector Walker expressed gratitude to local residents for their patience while the area was secured. Detectives are urging anyone with information or dash-cam/CCTV footage from the Monaghan Street area to contact them.
| Incident Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Sinn Féin Constituency Office, Monaghan Street, Newry |
| Device Type | Pipe bomb-type explosive |
| Status | Made safe by ATO, removed for examination |
| Investigation | Ongoing by PSNI |
