Arrest over murder bid on PSNI officer

A 37 year old man has been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of an off-duty police officer earlier this year.

Press Eye
Author: Naomi HollandPublished 21st Dec 2017

In February a viable Under Vehicle Improvised Explosive Device (UVIED) was found under a family car belonging to the officer outside their home in the Ardanlee area of Londonderry.

Police in Derry believe the New IRA were behind what they've labelled a 'cowardly attack.'

The man was arrested in the Ballymagroarty area under the Terrorism Act and has been taken to Musgrave Serious Crime Suite where he is being questioned by police.

Detective Inspector McKenna said: “If this UVIED had exploded with our colleague and his young family in the car it would have had devastating consequences.

"Police believe the New IRA are responsible for this cowardly attack during which they put everyone’s safety at risk as the device was left in a residential area and could have exploded at any time.

“I would like to thank the public for their assistance to date but I believe there are still people in the community who hold vital pieces of information that could assist police and I would appeal to them to make contact with Detectives on 101 or alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.