Pipe-bomb explodes outside family home in Craigavon

Q Newsdesk

A family with young children have escaped injury after a bomb detonated outside their house in Craigavon.

Police say a loud bang was heard in the area Enniskeen area just before 11.30 last night.

Army bomb experts and police arrived at the scene and found a second viable device.

Residents were evacuated during the operation but have since been allowed to return home.

Local MLA Carla Lockhart says it was a sickening attack:

Detective Sergeant Foley said:

“The remnants of the device that exploded and the second device have been seized by police and taken away for further forensic examination.

"Residents who were evacuated as part of a public safety operation during the alert have now been allowed to return to their homes.

"I want to thank all those who were affected by the alert for their patience as we worked to make the scene safe. I appreciate the disruption this caused to residents who had to leave their homes, however, keeping people safe is our priority and we will not take any chances. 

"This was a reckless attack by those responsible, and we are extremely fortunate that we are not dealing with any serious injuries, or worse today. 

"Anyone could have picked up these potentially deadly devices, and those behind the attack have clearly no regard for the safety of the others. 

Security alert in Enniskeen area of Craigavon last night has ended. ATO attended.2 suspicious objects found at the scene have been declared viable devices.Residents have been allowed to return home.Thank you to those affected for their patience as we worked to make the scene safe

— Arma, Banb & Crai (@PSNIABC) 17 February 2019