A dissident republican terror group in Northern Ireland, known as the New IRA, has reportedly been plotting a major attack aimed at overshadowing U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to the region this week. Local reports suggest that security forces have already taken action to prevent any such incident during the president's trip.
President Biden is due to arrive in Belfast on Tuesday amid heightened security measures and an extensive operation by local law enforcement agencies. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) recently conducted searches within Derry city—one of the focal points of violence during "The Troubles"—as part of their ongoing efforts against terrorist threats.
Last weekend, British Army bomb squads were deployed around potential target locations looking for components necessary for constructing explosive devices. The New IRA was formed roughly ten years ago and claimed responsibility for last year’s attack in Strabane, Co Tyrone which resulted in two police officers being injured.
Moreover, just weeks prior to this planned event targeting President Biden’s visit; senior detective John Caldwell faced a gun attack leading him with life-altering injuries - allegedly orchestrated by members associated with dissident organizations active across County Tyrone.
Biden remains steadfast despite recent incidents and is expected to participate in anniversary events scheduled on Wednesday before crossing into the Republic of Ireland later that day—arriving shortly after another prominent date: Easter Monday.
With tensions high ahead his arrival next week; PSNI has launched what they describe as a “high visibility” security operation intended at curbing fears related specifically towards potential terrorist attacks while also raising overall threat levels from substantial up-to severe—a move which may see some officers transition onto 12-hour shift patterns given current circumstances surrounding these extremist groups’ activities throughout Northern Ireland
Chief Constable Simon Byrne from PSNI implored communities' support stating: "We are responding swiftly but proportionately to reports of a 'bomb plot' allegedly organized by the New IRA organization. We ask for your help in keeping everyone safe during this challenging period."
As more information becomes available, this article will be updated accordingly; however, it is worth noting that Irish police agencies have already intervened successfully to prevent a terror attack initially planned by members associated with the New IRA amidst President Joe Biden's upcoming visit—demonstrating resilience against ongoing threats from dissident organizations operating within Northern Ireland today.