The discovery was made after police condemned as “senseless and reckless” a petrol bomb attack on officers during an Easter parade.
A police operation is underway following the discovery of a suspected device in a Northern Ireland cemetery.
Just after 6:30 a.m., the device was discovered on the premises of the City Cemetery in Creggan, Derry.
Two robots, which are typically used to inspect suspicious objects, were observed moving around the site.
There are cordons in place and access to the cemetery is restricted, although one funeral was permitted.
Chief Superintendent Nigel Goddard, the area commander for Derry City and Strabane, stated, “We fully comprehend the level of concern and anger about this, but we have no choice but to take this action.”
Regarding the protection of individuals and communities, we will never take any chances.
“A cemetery is a place where people offer respect to deceased loved ones.
“This callous and provocative action contradicts that. It is abhorrent.”
He added, “We will strive to minimize disruption and complete this operation as quickly as possible.”
However, I cannot emphasize enough that public safety is our top priority, and I appreciate the support of the community.
Commenting on the security operation, Foyle MP Colum Eastwood tweeted, “People are unable to visit the graves of their loved ones due to the actions of a few individuals without a political mandate or support.
“Hoping that the city cemetery is secured as quickly as possible.”
It comes after police condemned as “senseless and reckless” a petrol bomb attack on officers during an Easter parade.
An armoured police Land Rover in Creggan was hit by incendiary devices during a “unannounced” dissident Republican march.
The incident occurred on Easter Monday, which coincided this year with the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement – a peace agreement that primarily ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.
No one was hurt, and the parade-monitoring truck was withdrawn.
Today’s device was discovered in the same area where yesterday’s unannounced Easter parade participants hid under canopies, removed their paramilitary-style clothing, and burned it.
