'Strong Possibility' of Republican Attack on Mainland U.K.

Mural supporting the IRA
A mural supporting the Irish Republican Army (IRA) in the Ardoyne area of north Belfast, September 9, 2015. The threat to the British mainland from dissident republicans is now greater. Cathal McNaughton/Reuters

There is a "strong possibility" of an attack by dissident republicans on the British mainland according to the U.K. security services.

Home Secretary Theresa May told parliament that the threat level of such an attack had been raised from "moderate," meaning an attack is "possible, but not likely" to "substantial."

May said the change "reflects the continuing threat from dissident republican activity.

"As a result of this change, we are working closely with the police and other relevant authorities to ensure appropriate security measures are in place," she added.

The threat from such an attack within Northern Ireland remains at "severe," meaning an attack is "highly likely."

The threat level across the U.K. relating to international terrorism remains at "severe."

The highest threat level in the U.K. is "critical," which would mean that "an attack is expected imminently."

The news follows three shootings which took place within 24 hours of each other in Belfast this week. Police are continuing to investigate the deaths.

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