Explosive device found within suspicious package at Derry hotel in 'reckless and targeted attack'

A suspicious package delivered to a hotel in Northern Ireland contained a viable explosive device in what police have described as a “reckless and targeted attack”.

The hotel at Ebrington Square in Derry was evacuated in the security alert on Tuesday afternoon, as were a number of neighbouring properties.

A Halloween fun fair had been taking place in the area when the alert was first triggered at 3.20pm.

Army ammunition technical officers attended the scene in the Waterside area of Derry and carried out a controlled explosion on the package.

Police have condemned what they described as a “reckless and targeted attack” that caused “significant disruption and distress” to the local community.

The remnants of the package have been taken away for forensic examination.

Area Commander of Derry City and Strabane Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney confirmed on Wednesday it was a viable postal device.

“Our investigation is at an early stage. We are keeping an open mind as to who is responsible, and we are working through a number of lines of inquiry, one of which, at this time, is that dissident republicans may be responsible,” she said.

“I want to thank everyone for their patience and co-operation as we worked through the situation on Tuesday, from the afternoon until close to midnight. We worked to keep disruption to an absolute minimum while working to keep everyone safe.”

She added: “What occurred is shameful and utterly abhorrent, and those responsible clearly do not care who or what they harm.

“As our investigation continues, I am appealing to anyone who has information that can help identify those responsible to report what you know, no matter how insignificant it may seem. It could make all the difference.”

Stormont’s Justice Minister Naomi Long described the incident as “shameful”.

“I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms; it is abhorrent to think a viable device has been placed in the vicinity of families and young people celebrating Halloween,” she said.

“It was an utterly shameful and dangerous act and the people behind it have shown absolutely no regard to the community or businesses affected.

“I would also like to pay tribute to the police officers who responded to this incident, once again putting themselves in harms’ way to ensure the safety of the public.

“The professionalism and courage of the police stands in stark contrast to those intent on bringing fear and disruption to our streets.”

Foyle Assembly member Julie Middleton said the incident was “deeply disturbing”.

“Those responsible hold no regard for human life, or the want for peace and prosperity in our city,” said the DUP representative.

“Yesterday, at Ebrington Square there will have been families, including children, enjoying the Fun Fair, residents at their workplace, or enjoying a meal, as well as visitors and tourists at a nearby hotel.

“It is deplorable that a viable device placed in such an area.

“I am hugely thankful to the police service for their diligent work this evening in keeping our community calm and safe.

“I now strongly appeal to anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant you may feel it to be, to please pass this information on to the PSNI.

“To those responsible for this attack, I say shame on you.

“Your vile actions, wicked thought processes and disgusting behaviour are not welcome.”