Terror alert in Northern Ireland

THE threat level due to a terror attack in Northern Ireland has been raised, as officials warn “attack is considered highly likely.”

The level was raised by the British MI5 after police were targeted by “groups intent on politically­motivated violence.”

The announcement of the change in threat levels comes just a few weeks before a visit by US President Joe Biden, who is scheduled to arrive in the middle of this month.

Tensions have been high in Northern Ireland, especially after an attempt was made to murder a high ­ profile police official, Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell, in Omagh last month.

According to Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton ­ Harris, by a local news source, “The threat level to Northern Ireland from Northern Ireland Related Terrorism is constantly monitored and is subject to a regular formal review. The threat level review takes into account a range of factors and analysis of recent incidents.”

He also added that “The decision to change the threat level is taken by MI5, independently of Ministers.”