Unexploded second World War shell dealt with in Co Derry

By Rebecca Black, PA

An unexploded shell dating back to the second World War was at the centre of a security alert in Co Derry.

The historic piece of munition was discovered in the Point Road area of Magilligan at the mouth of Lough Foyle near Co Donegal on Monday.

The road was closed overnight to Tuesday morning while army bomb disposal experts carried out a controlled explosion.

A security alert in Magilligan has now ended. pic.twitter.com/LZB3BsY1me

— Police Causeway Coast and Glens (@PSNICCGDistrict) February 27, 2024

A Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesperson said it was declared to be an unexploded second World War shell.

They said: “Police attended a report of what is believed to have been the discovery of a historic piece of munition in the Point Road area shortly before 6pm yesterday, Monday February 26.

“A road closure and cordons were in place as officers attended the scene overnight.

“Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) today, Tuesday, attended the scene, and carried out a controlled explosion on the device, which following examination, was declared to be an unexploded World War II shell.”

They added their thanks for the public for their patience and co-operation during the operation.