Five pipe bombs thought to be linked to INLA found in west Belfast

By Maria McCann

5 pipe bombs and ammunition have been discovered in west Belfast.

They were found by police investigating organised crime linked to the INLA.

Conway Street has now reopened and residents are allowed to return home.

Police say all of the items have been removed for further examination.

Detective Chief Inspector Pete Mullan said: “The search, which was part of an ongoing investigation into organised criminality associated to INLA by detectives from PSNI’s Reactive and Organised Crime Branch, uncovered 5 pipe bombs and a quantity of ammunition. 

“These are for one purpose only - to kill and injure people. Today’s operation demonstrates our ongoing commitment to keep people safe in our communities. 

“Information from the community is vital and I would continue to ask for the public to report any suspicious activity to police on 101 or if you wish to remain anonymous, through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

Security alert in Conway St, west Belfast now ended. 5 pipe bombs & quantity of ammunition removed for further examination. Road re-opened.

— PSNI (@PoliceServiceNI) February 21, 2017