Violent republicans killed one, shot 16 and planted 12 bombs

THE Real IRA murder of Kieran Doherty was the only killing related to the security situation in Londonderry last year but violent republicans perpetrated 12 bombing incidents and shot 16 people in 2009/10.

Statistics released by the PSNI show that of 45 paramilitary style shootings carried out by republicans across Northern Ireland last year 16 of these were executed in Foyle.

Across the wider G District that includes Strabane, Limavady and Magherafelt there were 24 shootings and 15 bombing incidents in total. Twelve of these attempted or actual bomb attacks were carried out in Londonderry.

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There were just two paramilitary assaults recorded by police in the city; one carried out by republicans, the other by loyalists. But across G District republicans carried out six paramilitary style assaults.

The PSNI recovered three guns and 11 rounds of ammunition in Londonderry over the year. Police arrested and subsequently charged six people under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act in Londonderry and across G District.

In B District (East and South Belfast) and H District (Coleraine, Moyle, Ballymoney, Ballymena and Larne) in contrast no-one was arrested under this legislation emphasising the Londonderry area as a hot spot of violent republican activity as far as police arrest rates are a guide.

The PSNI states that the statistics includes all deaths due to the security situation. They also feature shots fired by terrorists; shots fired by the security forces; paramilitary-style attacks involving shootings; shots heard (and later confirmed); and other violent incidents where shots are fired (e.g. armed robbery)

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An individual bombing incident may involve one or more explosive devices. Incidents recorded include explosions and defusings. Incidents involving hoax devices, petrol bombings or incendiaries are excluded.

Incidents recorded also include explosions and defusings where devices were used.