Delivery Driver Subjected to Terrifying Gunpoint Hijacking in Lurgan
A fast food delivery driver in Lurgan, County Armagh, was forced at gunpoint to transport an unknown object to a local police station in what authorities have described as a "shameful and dangerous attack." The incident occurred on Monday night, March 30, 2026, around 10:30 PM, and has triggered a major security response from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
Major Security Alert and Evacuations in County Armagh
The hijacking sparked significant disruption in the Lurgan area, with multiple homes evacuated as a precaution. Several key roads, including Church Place, Church Walk, Wellington Street, and sections of Market Street, William Street, and North Street, remained closed to traffic on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The PSNI's specialist terrorism unit has taken charge of the investigation, underscoring the serious nature of the threat.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson provided details to BBC Radio Ulster, explaining that the driver was threatened with a firearm and compelled to stop his white Audi car. An "object" was then placed in the vehicle, and the driver was forced to proceed to Lurgan police station. The driver endured what police termed a "terrifying ordeal" during the entire episode.
Political Condemnation and Community Impact
Northern Ireland's Justice Minister, Naomi Long, strongly condemned the attack, labeling it "utterly reckless and abhorrent behavior." In a statement, Minister Long emphasized, "This is a shameful and dangerous attack that has put lives at risk, and caused disruption and upset to the local community. There is absolutely no place for this." She also praised the police officers for their swift and professional response and expressed solidarity with all affected individuals.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn echoed these sentiments, describing the hijacking as a "reckless act of violence" in a post on social media platform X. He asserted, "There is no place for this in Northern Ireland, and those responsible must be held to account." The incident has drawn widespread attention due to its brazen nature and the potential terror implications being investigated by specialized units.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Measures
The PSNI continues to investigate the motives behind the hijacking, with the terrorism unit leading efforts to identify the perpetrators and the nature of the object involved. Security measures remain heightened in Lurgan, with road closures and police presence ongoing to ensure public safety. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward as they work to resolve this alarming case.
This event highlights ongoing security challenges in Northern Ireland and the risks faced by individuals in everyday situations. The community in Lurgan is grappling with the aftermath, as residents return to their homes and local businesses assess the impact of the disruptions caused by this violent incident.
