Security alert prompts call for vigilance

Mr Craigs’ comments come after residents in the Hillhall area were evacuated for most of the day on Thursday May 29.

Sloan Street was closed while army bomb experts examined a holdall reported by a concerned member of the public.

It was found not to contain anything untoward.

In an earlier security alert army technical officers carried out a number of controlled explosions on items in a stolen car close to the Hillhall Road - but these were subsequently determined to be not suspicious.

Barrack Street was also closed for a time on the same day when a suspicious object was brought to the city’s police station by a member of the public.

Mr Craig said: “It is deeply regrettable we saw several major incidents in the city of Lisburn which brought part of the town to a stand still and caused major disruption to families in the Hillhall area.

“Fortunately both incidents turned out to be false and not a major device.”

He continued: “It is important at this time given the activity of dissidents in Londonderry, where they have shown the major disruption they can carry out - that we be vigilant.” He continued: “Destruction and loss of life could follow.

“It is an unfortunate reality.”

Mr Craig also commended those who were “diligent” during the security alerts and gave special thanks to the bomb squad involved.