Bomb explodes outside police officers home

The object was discovered under a car at Ardanlee in the Culmore area of Londonderry.

The Northern Ireland Police Federation - the body that represents rank and file officers - called for the people who carried out such attacks to be "ostracised".

A spokesman said: "Once again we see police officers targeted for simply trying to protect the community.

"The people who are intent on targeting and attempting to murder police officers have nothing to offer their community or society at large other than misery and destruction.

"These people should be ostracised by all people who support the democratic path."

Several homes have been evacuated in the area following the discovery of the suspect object.

Vice chairwoman of Northern Ireland's Policing Board Debbie Watters said she believed the officer had a "very lucky escape".

"I am grateful that the evil intent of those responsible for leaving this device did not succeed.

"This officer has had a very lucky escape but such activity reinforces the continuing threat that exists for our police officers both on and off duty.

"As a community it is our responsibility to ensure those behind such activity are brought to justice and I would urge anyone with information to bring it to the police or anonymously through Crimestoppers," she said.

Police have said it is too early to speculate if this is the work of dissident republicans.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, homes have been evacuated in County Tyrone after the discovery of a suspicious object at Sion Mills.

Police have not linked the two incidents.