Police seize knife after report of armed men at Portstewart Strand turns out to be beach barbecue

Police removed a knife for disposal after responding to reports of a group of men, one of whom was believed to be carrying a knife, at Portstewart Strand on Sunday afternoon.

Officers were called to the popular beach area on 21 June following concerns about a number of men in the vicinity, prompting an immediate police response.

When officers arrived, they located the men and spoke with them to establish the circumstances surrounding the report.

Search reveals innocent explanation

A subsequent search of the men’s van found that they had been preparing for a barbecue at the beach and that the knife in question was being used for that purpose.

Police determined that no criminal offences had been committed.

Although no offences were identified, officers removed the knife for disposal.

No further police action was taken.

Swift response to public concern

The incident highlights the rapid response by police to reports involving potential weapons in public places, particularly in busy recreational areas during the summer season.

While the report initially raised concerns that a knife may have been involved in suspicious circumstances, enquiries at the scene established that the item was connected to a planned barbecue and not criminal activity.

The matter was resolved at the scene, with police confirming that no further action was required.