LISTEN: Lurgan is "sick, sore and tired" of dissidents after bomb and handgun recovered

By Q Radio News

A local MLA has told Q Radio, Lurgan has had enough of dissidents after a bomb and a hand gun were found in the town.

Homes in the Tarry Drive area were evacuated yesterday while searches took place.

The PSNI says its believes the weapons found had been intended to injure its officers.

SDLP MLA, Dolores Kelly says people in the area are sick of it.

DUP MLA, Carla Lockhart is praising police for thwarting a potentially deadly attack.

Superintendent David Moore said "During these searches a number of areas had to be cordoned, and some evacuations were necessary which affected local residents, including children attending a nearby playgroup.  

"We are hugely grateful for the patience, understanding and support shown to us by the local community, with whom we are proud to work in rooting out the scourge of terrorism.

"The device was examined by ATO and found to be viable and capable of substantial harm.  The device was made safe before being removed for forensic examination along with the firearm. 

"There is no doubt that this device was intended to harm police officers, however its placement and the manner in which it was left undoubtedly mean that had it detonated, it would almost certainly have caused death or serious injury. 

"Working together with the local community, this particular act of potentially lethal recklessness has been brought to an end."