The terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland has been increased from substantial to severe, meaning an attack is highly likely.
It comes after Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell was shot several times in front of his young son as he put sports equipment into the boot of his car following a youth coaching session.
In a written statement to MPs, the Northern Ireland secretary, Chris Heaton-Harris: “Over the last 25 years, Northern Ireland has transformed into a peaceful society. The Belfast (Good Friday) agreement demonstrates how peaceful and democratic politics improve society. However, a small number of people remain determined to cause harm to our communities through acts of politically motivated violence.
“In recent months, we have seen an increase in levels of activity relating to Northern Ireland-related terrorism, which has targeted police officers serving their communities and also put at risk the lives of children and other members of the public. These attacks have no support, as demonstrated by the reaction to the abhorrent attempted murder of DCI Caldwell.”
Best for Britain wrote: “Remember: In June 2016, Major and Blair warned that Brexit may “destabilise the complicated constitutional settlement that underpins stability in Northern Ireland”. Leading pro-Brexit politicians called their caution “rather sad”, “desperate” and “simply scaremongering”.
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Related: Nick Robinson and Richard Madeley called out for comments today
