At least eight used syringes were found under a bridge near Clooney Road in Ballykelly, County Londonderry.

The needles were discovered in an underpass used daily by primary and secondary school children walking to school buses.

Local residents Gareth Peoples and JP McDaid said the find had angered people in the area and raised fears that young children could pick up the items.

Michael and Veronica McLaughlin, who live nearby in Limavady, said the presence of discarded needles in a public area was concerning and called for stronger action.

Sinn Féin councillor Dermot Nicholl said the discovery could have led to serious consequences if a child had handled one of the syringes.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the needles had been collected and that officers would continue high-visibility patrols in the area while pursuing those involved in drug supply.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland advised the public not to touch any syringes found and to contact police or the local council for safe disposal.

The Department for Infrastructure said the underpass is its responsibility for structural maintenance and that the council had cleared the needles as an environmental health risk.