PSNI confirm email threat to Derry schools was a 'hoax'
Several Derry schools contacted parents after receiving the concerning message
A ‘concerning email’ containing a threat that was sent to several schools in Derry on Wednesday was a hoax, police have confirmed.
Over 300 schools across the North reported receiving the same emailed message.
It is believed similar emails have been received by some schools in Scotland
Checks have not, at this time, resulted in anything untoward, the PSNI said, adding that based on enquiries and information to date, police are treating this email, which originated from outside the UK, as a hoax.
Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally said: "We take incidents of this nature very seriously and we understand the concern in the community, school communities and for students and parents.
"Our enquiries are ongoing, however, at this stage we consider risk to the public as low. We will continue to liaise with schools impacted and have been working closely with the Department of Education and the Education Authority this morning to provide reassurance.
"We urge everyone, in the meantime, to be vigilant and report anything suspicious to police immediately by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency."
Earlier police confirmed they had received reports of ‘a concerning email’ sent to a number of schools’ the North.
Parents and guardians were contacted by the schools affected in Derry.
SDLP MLA Mark H. Durkan said: “I've been made aware that some schools have received an email threat earlier this morning.
“The PSNI have advised this is not a credible threat.
“Our school staff, children and parents have enough to be getting on with without additional stressors like these to deal with. Keep an eye out on school messaging apps for any updates.”