The suspect device found this morning in Derry was an elaborate hoax, say police
POLICE say a security alert which closed a day care centre in Derry this morning was an “elaborate hoax”.
The suspect device had been found in the Rossnagalliagh area.
British Army Technical Officers were tasked to the scene.
Rainbow Child and Family Centre was evacuated and a number of roads were closed.
Templemore Sports Complex was also opened for those affected.
PSNI Ch Insp Gordon McCalmont said: “This device was an elaborate hoax.
“It wasn’t a viable device but somebody has gone to great lengths to make us believe that something viable was there.
“We will be launching a criminal investigation. We are quite confident that things will be wrapped up pretty quickly.”
This afternoon Chief Inspector McCalmont added: “This incident has caused inconvenience, disruption and upset for the local community.
“I would like to thank the members of the public for their patience and cooperation during the operation this morning.
“An investigation is now underway to find those responsible.
“I would ask anyone with any information about this incident to contact police in Strand Road on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
