‘Viable devices could have killed’ say PSNI

The security forces found two separate devices during alerts last Friday and on Tuesday.

On Tuesday morning a caller to the local press warned of an explosive device in the Carrigart Manor area of Lurgan.

Police called in Army Technical Officers after what appeared to be a pipe bomb was found close to homes in the Portadown Road development.

A number of homes were evacuated and bomb disposal experts made safe the device.

It is understood the device was a pipe shaped device with bolts on each end and a wire running from it.

It was described as lethal by the PSNI who removed it for further forensic examination.

On Friday evening a number of homes in the Crozier Park and Carrigart Crescent areas were evacuated following reports of a suspect device.

That device was also described by the PSNI as ‘viable’.

Inspector Leslie Badger, Neighbourhood Policing Team, E District said: “This is a residential area and we are all extremely thankful that this device was detected and that no one was killed or seriously injured.

“The consequences had this device detonated do not bear thinking about. Obviously the people responsible have little regard for human life.”

SDLP Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly has condemned those behind the security alert which disrupted the lives of people in the area.

Ms Kelly, a member of the NI Policing Board, said: “This is in an area where there is a primary school and which is a heavy residential area. People are shocked this has happened.

“It is a stark reminder of the Troubles and the past which no one wants to be reminded of, and for which there is no support,” said Mrs Kelly.

“Thankfully the device was detected and made safe, but whoever is responsible has absolutely no regard for the community and the people who live there.

“I condemn those responsible and I would urge anyone with information to contact police.”