Suspected firearms found during PSNI searches at the Bannfoot area of north Armagh close to Lough Neagh

The area around the Bannfoot not far from Charlestown village was cordoned off from lunchtime on Wednesday. It is understood no one was evacuated from their homes and police divers were involved in the search.

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A PSNI spokesperson said: “Detectives are appealing for information after a number of items were recovered following a search in Derrytrasna on Wednesday, 4th September.

"Shortly before 2pm police received a report that a suspected firearm was in a river in the Bannfoot Road area. Officers attended and conducted a search, where police divers uncovered a number of items, including suspected firearms, which were taken away for further examination.

"Early indications suggest that these are replica weapons. An update will follow in due course.

"An investigation has been launched to determine how these items were left in the area. Officers would appeal to anyone with any information to contact Police on 101 and quote reference 762 of 04/09/24.

"You can also report online at https://www.psni.police.uk/report or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

One eyewitness said helicopters were in the area from around Noon on Wednesday and the blue lights of the PSNI were spotted arriving at around 2.30pm.

The Bannfoot area is a short distance from Charlestown village and close to Derrytrasna, Co Armagh.

It is a quiet spot which is mostly used by fishermen, canoeists, daytrippers and kayakers. It is close to where the River Bann enters Lough Neagh.