Strabane police bombers have '˜nothing to offer'

Police Federation NI Chairman Mark Lindsay said the bombers have “nothing to offer a community that is trying to build a better here and now and a more positive future.”

A PSNI spokepserson earlier today confirmed their belief the bombing was “an attempt was made to kill police officers”.

The finger of suspicion will again point to dissident republicans opposed to the peace process.

The murder bid happened on the same day Northern Ireland’s former deputy first minister and ex-IRA commander Martin McGuinness died.

PSNI superintendent Gordon McCalmont said it was “incredibly lucky” no one was killed.

Superintendent McCalmont explained: “At this time our assessment is that a device exploded while police were on patrol in the area of Townsend Street shortly after 8.30pm.

“The investigation is at an early stage and we have had to ask some residents to leave their homes while we carry out our enquiries. While we are unable to go into specifics of the incident at this stage, I am confident in saying that we are incredibly lucky that the lives of officers and other members of the community were not lost last night.

“We appreciate the understanding and patience of local residents while we carry out our enquiries and would appeal for anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area to contact us.”

PFNI Chairman, Mark Lindsay, said: “The people who detonated an improvised explosive device near a police patrol have nothing to offer. They are fixed firmly in the past with nothing to offer a community that is trying to build a better here and now and a more positive future.

“They peddle misery. They are a throwback to bad times. They oppress and brutalise people and deserve to be ostracised, caught, convicted and given tough prison sentences.

“Last night, our Officers escaped unhurt in a clear attempt to murder and maim. On or off duty, Officers are at high alert and that situation will remain the case for the foreseeable future.”

Local SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan said such attacks have no place in a modern progressive society.

After speaking with the PSNI, including those leading the investigation, Mr McCrossan said: “I have spoken at length to the PSNI where it has become clear that individuals have deliberately tried to kill two local police officers last night through the use of an explosive device. This devise has been described as substantial in size and it went off around 8:30 PM last night. Fortunately, the explosion missed two PSNI officers which were the target.

“It’s my understanding that many families and individuals in the vicinity of the area have had to be moved out as a precaution and that roads into and out of the area are currently closed as forensic evidence gathering continues.

“Such attacks on the PSNI have no place in a modern progressive society. Strabane has come a long way over recent years and the people want no return of the past.”

Police can be contacted on 101 or information can be passed anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.