Guns and ammo seized from republican arms cache

The gear was discovered during a planned search on the Spout Road, a back road leading out of Strabane from the Head of the Town area.

The planned search by detectives from the PSNI’s Terrorism Investigation Unit (TIU) was conducted with support from the force's Tactical Support Group.

Both the suspected firearm and ammunition have been taken away for further forensic examination.

Detective Inspector Anthony Kelly said: "The PSNI’s priority will always be to protect communities and keep people safe from harm, and today's search demonstrates that we will continue to work with our communities to disrupt the activities of this small group of people who are intent on using violence.

"There is no place for this type of activity and the vast majority of people in our communities want to live in a peaceful society.

"I want to appeal to anyone who has information which could assist our investigation to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 765 of 07/03/20.

“Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”