A number of homes in Co Armagh were evacuated after the discovery of a suspected pipe bomb.
Police say the incident happened at John F Kennedy Park, Bessbrook on Thursday, January 27 shortly before 11pm.
It's reported a large bang was heard in the area but residents escaped any injuries.
PSNI Inspector Campbell said: “Shortly before 10:50pm, it was reported that neighbours heard a loud bang in the area. Police arrived at the scene and the remains of a suspected pipe bomb was discovered, which is believed to have caused scorch damage to a window of a nearby property. At this stage, there are no reports of any injuries.
“A number of homes have been evacuated as a safety precaution, to allow police to conduct a public safety operation in the area.
“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. A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”
Inspector Stevenson later added: “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.
“Families in the area who were evacuated as a safety precaution, to allow police to conduct a public safety operation in the area, have since been allowed to return home.
“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."
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