Belfast: Mortar Bomb Found Near Police Station

The criminals behind a suspected failed bomb attack on a police station in Northern Ireland had a clear intent to murder, a senior officer has said.

Army bomb disposal experts are still examining the device, which was found near New Barnsley police station in north Belfast.

It is believed to be a type of mortar bomb.

Temporary Superintendent Emma Bond branded the incident a "despicable act".

With many homes and two primary schools close by, she said there could have been multiple casualties if a mortar had been launched.

"Those who are behind this attack had very clear and I believe murderous intent," she said. "This is a very reckless attack."

The suspected mortar and launcher were found on waste ground around 500 metres to the rear of the police station at 7.15am.

Temporary Superintendent Emma Bond: 'A despicable act'

They were reported by a police officer on the way to work and a passing taxi driver.

It is thought the suspicious items were planted some time between Thursday night and early Friday morning.

Two primary schools were forced to close and a funeral was disrupted after the alarm was raised.

Many residents are still waiting to return to their homes while the operation to make the area safe continues.

The mortar is thought to be the work of dissident republicans, who are engaged in a campaign of violence against the security forces.

The latest incident comes after officers intercepted a van carrying mortars and launchers close to a police station in Londonderry earlier this month.

Army bomb disposal experts search for more devices

Last weekend three police officers escaped injury when an explosive device went off just yards away as they patrolled a coastal path on the outskirts of Belfast.

North Belfast Assembly Member William Humphrey said: "It is utterly appalling and disgusting that terrorists should put lives at risk by preparing such an attack.

"If this device had been deployed it could have caused indiscriminate slaughter, whether in the police station or among people living in houses on either side.

"The fact that it was discovered close to two primary schools only adds to their recklessness.

"This is a reminder of the terror which some deranged people want to drag us back to.

"They will not succeed and I call, in the strongest possible terms, for anyone who can assist the police to catch those responsible and bring them to justice, to pass on whatever information they have."

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