Dissident republicans have been blamed for this morning¿s shooting incident in Co. Down. There were no injuries in the attack which has been condemned by the SDLP¿s Eddie McGrady.
The shooting happened at the Model Farm in Downpatrick when members of the PSNI were conducting a search of the area.
It is understood the search was part of an ongoing investigation into dissident republican activities.
The Assembly member said it was clear that there has been an influx of paramilitary personnel into the area whom he presumed were members of a dissident IRA group.
While there were no injuries, Mr McGrady said the attack was not only aimed at the police but also at the local community.
Calling on the community to cooperate with the police he said it was important to prevent an escalation of violence in the local community with it's "potential for death".
A follow-up operation is under way, and police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.
