Cross-border inquiry after gun fired in Belleek

PSNI says shot aimed at van of contractor working at hotel in Co Fermanagh village

A general view of Belleek in Co Fermanagh where a police investigation has commenced into an incident in which a gun was fired in the village on Tuesday. Image: Google Streetview.
A general view of Belleek in Co Fermanagh where a police investigation has commenced into an incident in which a gun was fired in the village on Tuesday. Image: Google Streetview.

A cross border investigation has begun after a gun was fired on a street in Belleek, Co Fermanagh on Tuesday morning.

Police are attempting to establish the motivation for the attack, whcih occurred when four men wearing balaclavas arrived at a hotel on the village’s Main Street at about 9.30am and fired at a van belonging to a contractor working at the property.

"No-one sustained any injuries but all involved are understandably shaken by today's events," PSNI Chief Inspector Graham Dodds said.

He said the men left the scene in the direction of the border and that PSNI officers were working with gardaí in an attempt to trace the men’s movements.

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Anybody who noticed any suspicious activity in the area on Tuesday is asked to contact the PSNI or the Crimestoppers charity.

The incident was condemned by the Ulster Unionist Fermanagh South Tyrone MP Tom Elliott.

“Belleek is a quiet Fermanagh border village and this incident will have come as a complete shock to the local community,” he said.

“It is a reminder that we are still plagued by those who are intent on murder, attempted murder and disruption, and of dark days which we all want to put behind us.

“Bearing in mind the fact that the gang fled in the direction of the Republic, it is clear that this investigation will be a joint one between the PSNI and the Garda. I appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in Belleek this morning to come forward immediately and help catch this dangerous criminal gang,” said Mr Elliott.

Gerry Moriarty

Gerry Moriarty

Gerry Moriarty is the former Northern editor of The Irish Times