30.12.04

BreakingNews.ie

**Thinking of putting a separate 'Firebomb' section in to keep track of all this shite

Firebomb defused in Newry
30/12/2004 - 17:51:24

British army bomb experts tonight dealt with a firebomb found in a store in Newry, Co Down.

They were called out earlier after the device was discovered in a clothes shop in Marcus Street.

The area was sealed off and it was later confirmed that the object found this afternoon was a crude but viable incendiary device.

Police in Newry have warned key holders of businesses in the city to thoroughly check premises.

It was the latest in a series of incendiary devices planted in towns and cities throughout Northern Ireland.

Dissident republicans are suspected by police to be responsible for the bombing campaign.

Last night an incendiary bomb was defused by army bomb experts at the Sainsbury supermarket at Sprucefield outside Lisburn, Co Antrim.

In the run-up to Christmas, the neighbouring B&Q DIY store wasextensively damaged by fire when a device went off.

Earlier this week a firebomb was found in the pocket of an item of sportswear in a sports shop in Old Creamery Retail Park in Monaghan Street, Newry. This was also defused by army technical officers.

On Sunday it was reported that the Real IRA intended to step up its violence to try to disrupt the peace process.

In recent weeks there have been firebomb attacks in Belfast, Newry,Ballymena, Newtownabbey and Lisburn.

Police chiefs tonight warned shopkeepers to remain vigilant in the coming week which would be extra busy because of the annual sales.

A total of 16 incendiaries have been found in Lisburn, Foyle, Newry, Belfast and Ballymena.

Some were discovered just in time and were dealt with by the army, but businesses have been very severely damaged by these devices.

Assistant Chief Constable Duncan McCausland has praised shopkeepers for their efforts to thwart such attacks, but urged caution over the coming days.

“An incendiary device has the potential to destroy property, and take human life. Its purpose is to cause widespread damage. Devices can be left in garments, soft furnishings, and upholstery, anywhere that can catch fire easily.

“I am also appealing to members of the public to help,” said Mr McCausland. “If you are out shopping, and you see something that looks out of place, tell a member of staff who can call the police.”

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