A horizontal mortar tube and command wire have been recovered during the security operation in Castlewellan which began yesterday afternoon (Monday).
Police believe dissident republican terrorists are responsible and that this find has undoubtedly prevented an attack on police in the area.
The mortar tube and command wire will be subject to detailed forensic examination. Police believe the items were recently left on the road, and may only have been there for as little as a day.
The items were discovered on Drumnaquoile Road by a member of the public before 3pm yesterday.
Detective Inspector Orr of Crime Operations Terrorism Investigation Unit said police implemented a full and extensive clearance operation in the area following the discovery yesterday afternoon.
He said that operation concluded this afternoon and thankfully nothing further has been found.
“The mortar tube and command wire will now be subject to detailed forensic examination – however our initial assessment is the items, which are in a fairly good condition relative to other similar devices we have uncovered, had not been at that location for very long and may even have been there for as little as one day,” added the inspector.
And he is appealing for people to help identify those responsible for leaving this device.
“Whilst at this stage, it is too early to attribute ownership to any particular grouping, it is my belief that dissident republican terrorists are responsible and that this find has undoubtedly prevented an attack on local police.
“We know that the vast majority of people support our police officers and simply want to live in a peaceful society. We will continue to work with communities to disrupt the activities of the small group of people who are intent on using violence. If you know anything that could help us, please call 101, quoting reference 721 09/04/19,” added Detective Inspector Orr.