Northern Ireland terrorism threat level rises to ‘severe’

An officer from the Police Service of Northern Ireland works at the scene of a shooting in Omagh, County Tyrone. Photograph: Mark Marlow/EPA

The terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland has been increased from substantial to severe, meaning an attack is highly likely.

In a written statement to MPs, the Northern Ireland secretary, Chris Heaton-Harris, said MI5 had increased the threat to the country from Northern Ireland-related terrorism and the public should remain vigilant but not be alarmed.