The PSNI says mass murder in Derry has been narrowly avoided, after four mortars they believe were within minutes of being launched were intercepted.
The mortars, and mortar tubes were found inside a van with its roof cut off, which might have been an intended launchpad.
The Donegal-registered van, and a motorcycle that was following it, were
stopped by Police near to the Donegal border at Foyle Road, in Derry, as part of an ongoing security operation into dissident republican activity.
100 homes in the area have been evacuated, and the scene remains sealed off.
Three local men in their 30s have been arrested – police say the men are known to them.
PSNI Chief Superintendent Stephen Cargin has pledged to dedicate all his resources to fighting these type of terror attacks:
Derry City Council has advised that a number of its services have been affected as a result of the ongoing security alert in the city.
The Brandywell Stadium and Showgrounds, the Brandywell Civic Amenity site and the offices of Derry City FC have all been temporarily closed until further notice today.
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