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23/10/2001
Anthrax alert at US Consulate in Belfast
Two employees at the American Consulate in Belfast have been taken to hospital after coming into contact with a white powder contained in the post.
A package was being taken for x-ray when one of the men noticed the powder on Monday October 23. Both men were isolated and showered down before being taken to hospital as a precaution. Their clothes and the package were taken away for analysis.
Last week there were six reported cases in Northern Ireland – all of which were identified as hoaxes.
On Thursday October 18, samples of white powder, which were sent to two homes in Belfast and Tyrone; to post office depots in Belfast and Mallusk; to Derry City Council’s offices and a household at in Whitehead, County Antrim, were confirmed by laboratories in England to be hoaxes.
The Security Minister Jane Kennedy has warned hoaxers that they face prosecution and possible imprisonment for their actions.
Condemning hoaxers who are maliciously causing unnecessary alarm and concern to the general public in Northern Ireland, she said: “These individuals are causing distress and spreading fear throughout the community. These are malicious and criminal acts and anyone sending hoax packages or misleading the police will be prosecuted and may face imprisonment.
"I would like to reassure the public that there is no specific evidence of any current threat of bio-terrorism in Northern Ireland. So whilst people should obviously treat any suspicious package with caution, I urge people not to overreact but to remain alert and calm.” (AMcE)
A package was being taken for x-ray when one of the men noticed the powder on Monday October 23. Both men were isolated and showered down before being taken to hospital as a precaution. Their clothes and the package were taken away for analysis.
Last week there were six reported cases in Northern Ireland – all of which were identified as hoaxes.
On Thursday October 18, samples of white powder, which were sent to two homes in Belfast and Tyrone; to post office depots in Belfast and Mallusk; to Derry City Council’s offices and a household at in Whitehead, County Antrim, were confirmed by laboratories in England to be hoaxes.
The Security Minister Jane Kennedy has warned hoaxers that they face prosecution and possible imprisonment for their actions.
Condemning hoaxers who are maliciously causing unnecessary alarm and concern to the general public in Northern Ireland, she said: “These individuals are causing distress and spreading fear throughout the community. These are malicious and criminal acts and anyone sending hoax packages or misleading the police will be prosecuted and may face imprisonment.
"I would like to reassure the public that there is no specific evidence of any current threat of bio-terrorism in Northern Ireland. So whilst people should obviously treat any suspicious package with caution, I urge people not to overreact but to remain alert and calm.” (AMcE)
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14 November 2024
Traffic Warning For South Belfast Ahead Of Northern Ireland Match
Road users are advised to plan for potential traffic delays in the south Belfast area on Friday, 15th November due to the UEFA Nations League football match between Northern Ireland and Belarus. The match will take place at Windsor Park, kicking off at 7.45pm, and it is expected that around 18,000 supporters will attend.
Traffic Warning For South Belfast Ahead Of Northern Ireland Match
Road users are advised to plan for potential traffic delays in the south Belfast area on Friday, 15th November due to the UEFA Nations League football match between Northern Ireland and Belarus. The match will take place at Windsor Park, kicking off at 7.45pm, and it is expected that around 18,000 supporters will attend.
02 April 2009
Latest Belfast 'Bomb' Alerts Declared Hoaxes
Two security alerts in west Belfast have ended and been declared as hoaxes. The news came after a controlled explosion was carried out on a suspicious object found at the gates of Whiterock Leisure Centre.
Latest Belfast 'Bomb' Alerts Declared Hoaxes
Two security alerts in west Belfast have ended and been declared as hoaxes. The news came after a controlled explosion was carried out on a suspicious object found at the gates of Whiterock Leisure Centre.
30 July 2002
Belfast bomb alerts declared hoaxes
Army Technical Officers (ATO) were called out to investigate two bomb alerts in Belfast this morning. At 10am, police were diverting traffic away from Wellington Place after it was reported that a suspect bag had been left on board a bus parked close by.
Belfast bomb alerts declared hoaxes
Army Technical Officers (ATO) were called out to investigate two bomb alerts in Belfast this morning. At 10am, police were diverting traffic away from Wellington Place after it was reported that a suspect bag had been left on board a bus parked close by.
20 November 2024
Other News In Brief
Alliance Calls For 'Immediate And Decisive' Action On Child Hunger The Alliance Party has called for "immediate and decisive" action to address the growing crisis of child hunger in Northern Ireland.
Other News In Brief
Alliance Calls For 'Immediate And Decisive' Action On Child Hunger The Alliance Party has called for "immediate and decisive" action to address the growing crisis of child hunger in Northern Ireland.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
