Man arrested following controlled explosions of viable devices in Tyrone

By Gráinne Ní Aodha, PA

A man has been arrested after controlled explosions of viable devices were carried out in a residential area in Co Tyrone.

Homes were evacuated overnight after a suspicious object was found in the Oakfield Gardens area of Moy on Friday afternoon.

A local sports club was used as a rest centre and people were advised to avoid the area while the police operation was being carried out.

On Saturday afternoon, police said there was no further risk to the public.

Detective Sergeant Dougherty said police received a report of a suspicious object at a residential property shortly before 4.40pm on Friday.

“Officers attended the scene, and a public safety operation commenced,” he said.

“Cordons were put in place and a number of local residents had to be evacuated from their homes overnight.

“Ammunition technical officers determined that there were a number of viable devices in the property and carried out controlled explosions, before residents were able to return to their homes on Saturday morning.

“There is no further risk to the public, but officers remain in the area this morning as part of our ongoing investigation.

“This was an extremely distressing experience for residents, and we understand the impact of the disruption faced.

“We are grateful for their support and cooperation as we worked to keep everyone safe.

“One man, aged in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of possessing explosives under suspicious circumstances.

“He remains in custody at this time, assisting with inquiries.

“A number of items have been taken away for further examination and as inquiries are ongoing, we appeal to anyone with any information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1138 of 8/8/25.”