BY MARK McKELVEY

m.mckelvey@ulsterherald.com

THE PSNI has increased patrols in the Omagh town area in response to dissident republican death threats to local police officers.

Tensions are currently high following a number of attacks on police officers in Tyrone and Fermanagh in recent months.

Chief Constable Hugh Orde has already admitted that dissident activity is as high now as at any time during the Troubles and this week a police spokesperson revealed to the UlsterHerald that the PSNI is taking every measure possible to ensure the safety of local police officers and civilians.

The police spokesperson said, "While we do not comment on the security of individuals, whether they be police officers or other members of the community, when we become aware of a threat to them, we take appropriate action.

"It is worth remembering that there is a substantial threat to police officers and others from dissident republicans. In particular, they have made serious attempts to murder officers over the past year.

"We are taking steps to counter the threats and people throughout Tyrone and Fermanagh will have noticed increased police activity. We ask for their patience and understanding and we also appeal for all with information about those behind the threats to give that information to us."

Local Sinn Féin councillor and DPP member, Declan McAleer unequivocally condemned the murder threats.

He said, "The people who are engaged in this behaviour are operating without any mandate and have no support whatsoever within this community. I'm not certain whose agenda they are working to, but I completely condemn such threats and am calling on whoever is responsible to withdraw these immediately."

Cllr Tom Buchanan, West Tyrone DUP MLA and NI Policing Board member, expressed his concern that police have had to step up their level of activity in the Omagh area.

He said, "It is a real concern when dissident republicans are creating a threat to both police officers and to people in the local area. This is a small minority of people that are intent on murdering police personnel.

"I commend the police for increasing their presence in an area where they feel this republican threat is. However, I think the police must receive the full backing of all the political parties at this time to take whatever force or action required to stamp out this type of activity."