Police warn children could have been killed after discovery of viable bomb
It was recovered along with a gun following searches in the Tarry Drive area of Lurgan today.
Police say a viable explosive device found in Lurgan today could have killed children.
It was recovered along with a gun following searches in the Tarry Drive area earlier today (Tuesday, 08 May).
During the searches a number of areas had to be cordoned, and some evacuations were necessary which affected local residents, including children attending a nearby playgroup.
The device was examined by ATO and found to be viable and capable of substantial harm.
The device was made safe before being removed for forensic examination along with the firearm.
Police have thanked those in the area for their patience.
Superintendent David Moore said:
"We are hugely grateful for the patience, understanding and support shown to us by the local community, with whom we are proud to work in rooting out the scourge of terrorism. "
"The people living in this area were placed at great risk. Had this device not been found when it had, there is no telling what we may have been dealing with. Young children would have been walking right past this location and people residing peacefully in this area were put in danger.
"The misguided individuals behind this device are seriously out of step with this community and clearly don’t care about the lives of those living in the area and the disruption they have brought to their doorsteps. Placing this device where they did says much about the contempt and disregard in which they hold this community.
"As a police service we will not be deterred by such acts nor by the small number of individuals behind them. We will keep doing our job, keeping people safe and tackling the things people in Lurgan are demanding we tackle - burglary, anti social behaviour and drug dealing.
"An investigation, led by detectives from PSNI’s Serious Crime Branch is underway and I would ask anyone who may have information that could assist the police investigation, to please get in touch with us. Police can be contacted on 101, or if someone would prefer to give information without leaving their name they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."