A suspicious package delivered to a hotel in Northern Ireland contained a viable explosive device, police have said. The hotel at Ebrington Square in Londonderry was evacuated during the security alert on Tuesday afternoon, along with a number of neighbouring properties.
Security alert and evacuation
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. The remnants of the package have been taken away for forensic examination.
Police and political reaction
Police condemned what they described as a “reckless and targeted attack” that caused “significant disruption and distress” to the local community. 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.”
Long also paid tribute to the police officers who responded, saying: “The professionalism and courage of the police stands in stark contrast to those intent on bringing fear and disruption to our streets.”
Local representative condemns attack
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. She noted that families, including children, had been enjoying the Fun Fair at Ebrington Square, and that residents, visitors, and tourists were in the area.
Middleton appealed for anyone with information to pass it on to the PSNI, adding: “To those responsible for this attack, I say shame on you. Your vile actions, wicked thought processes and disgusting behaviour are not welcome.”
