Police investigate bomb threat emails sent to Northern Ireland schools

Police in Northern Ireland are investigating after a series of schools received emails warning of bomb threats on Monday morning. The messages, sent shortly before 9am, claimed that explosive devices were located inside school buildings.

Details of the Threat

The emails stated that the threats were part of a wider action and were signed with the Arabic phrase ‘Allahu Akbar’, meaning ‘God is Great’. The message read: “This is an urgent notification that an explosive device containing ammonium nitrate (ANFO) is currently located inside the building.”

It continued: “Today, with Allah’s permission, we will carry out a series of planned terrorist attacks across this country. What you experience today is only the beginning. One day, your government will surrender its authority and Sharia Law will be established. Allahu Akbar.”

Police and Education Authority Response

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that reports were received regarding the emails. “Police received reports today, Monday October 19, of an email sent to a number of schools across Northern Ireland,” said a PSNI spokesperson. “As a result of this email, police are conducting urgent enquiries, and liaising with the schools in question. An update will be provided in due course.”

It is understood that several schools sent pupils home as a precaution. The Education Authority (EA) issued correspondence to affected schools advising them to remain “vigilant”. The EA stated it had contacted police for advice and would be “guided by their response”.

A spokesperson for the Education Authority said: “The Education Authority is aware that a number of schools across Northern Ireland have received a threatening email this morning. We recognise the concern this may cause for school leaders, staff, pupils and families. We are engaging closely with the PSNI and will act on their advice. Communications have been issued to schools, and we continue to support school leaders and keep them informed.”

Previous Incidents

This incident follows a similar event in May, when emails were sent to schools and businesses in the County Antrim area. In response to those earlier threats, police increased patrols but stated they did not believe the email was a credible threat. At that time, police described the message, which targeted schools in the Randalstown and Antrim town areas, as a “deliberate attempt to cause significant disruption to daily life”.

Why it matters

The receipt of bomb threats at educational institutions causes significant disruption to daily life and raises safety concerns for students, staff, and families. While previous similar incidents were deemed not credible by police, the specific language and claimed methodology in the current emails have prompted urgent police enquiries and precautionary measures by schools and the Education Authority.

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Sources

• belfasttelegraph.co.uk: Police investigating after NI schools report ‘bomb threat’ emails | Belfast Telegraph
• northernirelandworld.com: PSNI investigating 'bomb threat email' sent to Northern Ireland schools

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.