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More than 2,000 fish killed in river pollution

Reuters Atlantic salmon fish in waterReuters
Atlantic salmon were among the fish killed in the incident - stock image

Thousands of fish have been killed in a pollution incident in County Tyrone.

The Loughs Agency said more than 2,000 dead fish had already been been collected from the Glenmornan river in the village of Artigarvan, near Strabane, but that figure was expected to rise.

The incident was detected on Friday when fishery officers found large numbers of dead fish during a routine habitat survey in the area.

"Over 2,000 dead fish have been collected so far, including Atlantic salmon, brown trout, European eel, lamprey, flounder, stickleback and Stoneloach," the Loughs Agency said.

Loughs Agency Shows a river with banks on either side and mountains in the backgroundLoughs Agency
The Glenmornan River, in Artigarvan, County Tyrone, where the fish kill happened

"Of particular concern is the loss of over 500 European Eels, a species already in sharp population decline.

"Additionally, the discovery of more than 20 dead frogs suggests the presence of a highly potent pollutant."

The agency said the source of the pollution had been identified and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) was assessing the impact on water quality.

A spokesperson said: "All macroinvertebrate species appear to have been completely lost, highlighting the severe ecological impact.

"Investigations will continue over the coming days, with total mortality figures expected to rise.

"Anyone who discovers dead fish in the area is advised not to touch anything, and instead contact Loughs Agency directly on +44 (0) 28 71 342100 to arrange collection with a fishery officer."