Homes evacuated following discovery of suspected pipe bomb in Co Armagh

A number of homes have been evacuated following the discovery of a suspected pipe bomb in Co. Armagh. Credit: Pacemaker

Residents have been allowed to return home after being evacuated following the discovery of a suspected pipe bomb in Co. Armagh.

It was reported shortly before 11pm that neighbours heard a loud bang in the John F. Kennedy Park area of Bessbrook.

Police arrived at the scene where the remains of a suspected pipe bomb was discovered, which is believed to have caused scorch damage to a window of a nearby property.

A small viable pipe bomb type device was made safe by ammunition technical officers who also carried out searches in the area. The device has since been taken away for further forensic examinations.

There are no reports of any injuries.

A number of homes had been evacuated as a safety precaution, to allow police to conduct a public safety operation in the area.

The viable device is believed to have caused scorch damage to a window of a nearby property. Credit: Pacemaker

Inspector Stevenson said: “This was a completely reckless act and those responsible have shown a blatant disregard for the lives of others. Their actions are reprehensible and are not supported by the local community.

“I am also keen to thank local people for their support and patience as we worked to ensure the area was safe.

“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and police would appeal to anyone with any information to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 1997 27/01/22.”