Security alert at Waterfoot hotel an ‘elaborate hoax’
A SENIOR PSNI officer has slammed as “shameless” the planting of an elaborate hoax device at a hotel in Derry today.
The Waterfoot Hotel in the city’s Waterside area had to be evacuated after the discovery of a suspect device in the grounds.
It later led to the closure of the Foyle Bridge in both directions as Army Technical Officers carried out a controlled explosion.
The bridge was later re-opened to all traffic while ATO carried out a clearing operation of the scene.
The hotel had been due to host a PSNI recruitment day tomorrow but was cancelled as it clash with a couple’s wedding and a planned protest by dissident republican supporters.
This Assistant Chief Constable Mark Hamilton said: “Police have been responding to concerns that devices may been left at the venues where we are hosting familiarisation events as part of our recruitment campaign.
“Earlier today police evacuated the Waterfoot Hotel in Derry, Strule Arts Centre in Omagh and Belfast Metropolitan College.
“A suspicious object was found in the grounds of the Waterfoot Hotel and a controlled explosion was carried out. An examination was carried out on the object and it was declared an elaborate hoax.
“This device was deliberately placed to cause disruption to the hotel, its patrons and the wider community in Derry and must be condemned by all who strive to achieve success and prosperity for the city.
“Police remain at the scene in Derry and the alerts in Omagh and Belfast unfortunately look set to continue into the night.
“We have been working closely with the venues who are hosting the events and the two planned for Omagh and Belfast tomorrow, will go ahead as scheduled.
The Derry event has been postponed until next Saturday, 17 October.
“These are shameless acts that demonstrate no regard for the people living and working in these areas and have been designed to disrupt communities.
“I am aware of the disruption that has been caused by this security operation and I would like pay tribute to all the communities who have co-operated and worked with our officers to ensure disruption was minimal.
“I would strongly encourage everyone to come along to one of the familiarisation events taking place and find out more about the opportunities that exist within the Police Service.
“As part of our recruitment campaign, we are looking for people who want to make a positive contribution to Northern Ireland and are committed to making a difference.
“We are committed to ensuring that the Police Service is reflective of our society and welcome applications from across all sections of the community.”
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