A major security operation was launched in Lurgan following a hijacking and subsequent bomb threat at the local police station on Monday, 30 March. At approximately 10.30pm, a fast food delivery driver was targeted while making a delivery in Deramore Drive, located in the Kilwilkie area. He was approached by two masked men, one of whom was armed with a pistol.

The assailants placed an object in the boot of the driver's white Audi A4 and ordered him to drive the vehicle to Lurgan Police Station under threat of death. Upon reaching the station, the driver managed to escape and alerted security personnel to the presence of a bomb.

The incident triggered a significant overnight policing operation, resulting in the evacuation of approximately 100 homes. Displaced residents were provided with a rest centre at Lurgan Town Hall. Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) later performed a controlled explosion to neutralise the threat. Investigations confirmed that the device was a crude but viable improvised explosive.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson commented on the severity of the incident: "As unsophisticated as it was, it posed a significant risk to the life of the terrified delivery worker, our security staff and the local community." ACC Henderson described the event as a "reckless and cowardly attack," noting that while the investigation is in its early stages, it is "highly likely that dissident Republican groups are responsible."

He continued: "Those responsible do not have the support of our community here in Lurgan or beyond, and it is our community who have had to deal with the disruption caused by their pathetic attempt to remain relevant and provoke fear. I welcome the widespread and unequivocal condemnation we have heard from across civic and political society of this attack and am grateful for the expressions of support and concern for our police officers and staff involved in this operation."

Local residents were permitted to return to their homes earlier this morning. ACC Henderson expressed his gratitude to the public and local representatives for their patience throughout the safety operation.

Specialist detectives from the Terrorism Investigation Unit are now leading the enquiry. Authorities are appealing for anyone who observed the hijacked Audi A4 in the Kilwilkie Estate or Lurgan town centre between 10.30pm and 10.50pm to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 101, quoting reference number 1828 30/03/26. Alternatively, reports can be submitted via the non-emergency online form or through Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.