Several Northern Ireland Schools were forced to close on Monday, 24 March 2025, after receiving threatening emails that have since been declared a hoax by police.

The closures impacted several Northern Ireland Schools in Strabane, Ballycastle, and Enniskillen, prompting swift action from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and local authorities. The email threats triggered widespread concern among parents and staff, with many schools asking guardians to collect children immediately as a precaution.

Schools Affected Across the Region

The following schools were confirmed to have been impacted by the hoax:

Strabane:

• Holy Cross College
• Strabane Academy
• Strabane Primary School

Ballycastle:

• Cross & Passion College
• St Patrick’s & St Brigid’s Primary School

Enniskillen:

• Enniskillen Royal Grammar School
• Enniskillen Integrated Primary School and Nursery
• Erne Integrated College

Some schools, such as Erne Integrated College, were later able to reopen after receiving the all-clear from police.

Police Investigation Underway

The PSNI has confirmed that the threats were received by at least nine schools and were being treated as malicious hoaxes. In a statement, a spokesperson said they were working with colleagues in the Metropolitan Police in London to trace the source of the emails.

“We understand that incidents like this cause understandable concern and disruption,” the PSNI said. “However, following police assessment, we can confirm there is no viable threat.”

Uniformed officers attended each of the affected schools to provide reassurance and support, and a full investigation is now underway. No injuries or further incidents were reported.

Political Response

Northern Ireland’s Education Minister issued a statement condemning the threats, calling them “reckless and unacceptable” and praising the swift action of school staff and police.

“Hoax threats of this nature are deeply irresponsible. They disrupt education, frighten children and parents, and waste police resources,” the minister said.

Schools Urged to Remain Vigilant

Although the immediate danger has been ruled out, schools have been advised to remain alert and report any further suspicious communications. Parents are also encouraged to check school messaging apps and websites for the latest information.

For real-time updates on school closures, the public can visit the official NI Direct School Closures portal at nidirect.gov.uk.

Final Word

While the hoax has caused considerable disruption and distress, the response from school communities and law enforcement has been praised for its speed and professionalism. The PSNI continues to investigate the origin of the threats and is appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

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