Indiscriminate Skeoge binbomb could have killed

A local DUP MLA concurred, adding actions such as those carried out on the Skeoge Road will further no cause other than to cause hurt and distress, as proven over the past 40 years.

District Commander Superintendent Mark McEwan said those who planted the bomb on Tuesday, August 11, showed blatant disregard for lives of people in the community.

He said: “It was fortunate no one had been killed or seriously injured in this indiscriminate attack.

“Those who left this device showed no regard for the safety of anyone in the area.

“ The device was left in a waste bin and shrapnel from it could have killed or seriously injured anyone close by.”

Superintendent McEwan added: “Those involved in this attack showed a blatant disregard for the local community, as anyone could have approached this bin as it exploded.

“This has all the hallmarks of a dissident republican attack.

“Police will continue to patrol all areas of the City and I am asking everyone to work with us to reduce the threat that these people pose and to keep people safe.

“I am aware of the disruption that has been caused by this device and I appreciate the patience, understanding and most importantly the continued support of the local community as we worked to make the area safe.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who noticed any activity in the Skeoge Road area last night or anyone who has any information to contact Detectives in Strand Road Police Station on the non-emergency number 101. Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

DUP MLA Gary Middleton said: “Once again republicans have put innocent lives at risk by planting a viable device which could have killed or seriously injured.

“I call on those who were behind this latest terrorist activity to stop immediately. These actions will further no cause other than to cause hurt and distress, as proven over the past 40 years.

“These actions should be condemned by all. I would encourage anyone with any information to bring it forward to the PSNI and help bring those responsible to justice.”

At around 11.45pm last Tuesday police received reports of a loud bang in the area of Skeoge Road.

Officers attended the area and it appeared something inside a bin had exploded.

Further daylight checks were conducted and ATO were tasked to examine the area.

ATO confirmed that a viable explosive device had detonated in a bin and parts of what are believed to be remnants of the device have been taken away for further examination.