Londonderry mortars: Bombs 'within minutes' of launch

[MaxShimba]

Four live mortar bombs were intercepted by police in Northern Ireland minutes before being launched, a senior detective has said.

A van had its roof cut back to allow the mortars to be fired.

Police believe the target was a Londonderry police station. Three men have been arrested in the operation linked to dissident republicans.

Chief Supt Stephen Cargin said the bombs could have caused mass murder.

Read more: BBC News - Londonderry mortars: Bombs 'within minutes' of launch