Explosive device was 'terrorist attack by dissident republicans' say PSNI

The device was found in the Silverwood Industrial Estate in Lurgan, close to a built up housing area.

Detective Superintendent Sean Wright said: “Police in Lurgan are conducting enquiries following the discovery of an explosive device in the Silverwood Industrial Estate on the evening of Tuesday 4th February.

"The device has been made safe and it is fortunate that no-one has been hurt.

"Police continue to conduct extensive investigations into what is assessed to be a terrorist attack by dissident republicans.

"Police ask for the continued support and patience of the public as we conduct our investigations.”

Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley condemned the discovery of an explosive device found in Lurgan.

The Upper Bann MLA said: “This discovery represents the extremely unfortunate reality of a depraved and regressive mentality that still exists to cause chaos amongst our communities.

"This explosive device was found in the Silverwood Industrial Estate, nearby a densely populated housing development.

"Thankfully the device has been disabled and we are fortunate to have avoided scenes of devastation.

"The Police are undergoing investigations into what is believed to be an attempted terrorist attack by dissident Republicans.

"If anyone has any information that could be useful to ongoing investigations I would ask them to contact the PSNI immediately."

Sinn Féin Cllr Catherine Nelson also condemned those responsible for an explosive device found on Tuesday evening in the Silverwood Industrial Estate, Lurgan.

Cllr Nelson said: “An explosive device was found in the Silverwood Industrial Estate on Tuesday evening by the PSNI.

“This device was left in an area populated by many different businesses that operate around the clock.

“As a consequence of the attack businesses had to be evacuated.

“Those responsible for this extremely reckless attack placed the lives of nearby residents and workers at risk.

“They have absolutely no regard at all for local people.

“I unreservedly condemn this attack and ask anyone with information to bring it forward to the PSNI.”

Alliance Lurgan Councillor Peter Lavery said an explosive device left in the town 'could have killed'.Cllr Lavery was speaking after the discovery of the device in the Silverwood Industrial Estate on Tuesday.

"The area was evacuated while the device was disarmed. Police have said they believe dissident republicans were responsible.“It is clear those behind this device have no regard for human life, as it had the potential to kill,” said Councillor Lavery.“These devices and those behind them have no place in our society. People do not want to be dragged back to the past. I want to thank the PSNI and other statutory agencies for dealing with the situation, and urge those behind it to rethink their actions in future.“If anyone has any information on this incident, I urge them to take it to police immediately.”