LISTEN: Man arrested after being hospitalised when pipe bomb partially exploded in Craigavon

by Q Radio News

A man hospitalised after a security alert in Enniskeen in Craigavon has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of an explosive device.

The alert, which has now ended, was triggered after the man recieved face and hand injuries when a pipe bomb type device exploded.

A numer of number of houses were evacuated.

Local Councillor Thomas Larkham says residents were forced to take up refuge in a nearby church. 

🎥 Local Councillor Thomas Larkham says the community in the Enniskeen area of Craigavon are in shock after a viable device exploded last night, injuring one man.

He’s appealed for calm and says residents want to live in peace. pic.twitter.com/JSRxhzivdc

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) December 2, 2020

Speaking earlier today, Cllr Larkham said “Following an incident where a device appears to have partially exploded this evening, residents in the Enniskeen area of Craigavon have been evacuated to a nearby church.

"I understand one individual has been taken to hospital. 

“The circumstances of the incident are still unclear but army technical officers are on site and police have erected a cordon for the safety of the local community. 

“This is the last thing that anyone in Enniskeen wants or needs.

"This is a close knit community full of people trying to get on with their lives during a difficult time for us all. I want to thank the residents who have cooperated with police, reacting quickly to keep each other safe. I also want to thank the local church for opening its doors to this community.”

Meanwhile, MP for the area Carla Lockhart said her thoughts are with residents "caught up" in the incident. 

"I want to ask anyone who has any information in the area to come forward to the PSNI. 

"It's vitally important they get as much information as possible to try and piece together what has happened and to ensure those responsible face the full rigors of the law.

"Today in the area we could have been dealing with a very serious injury or a death. 

"It's important the police have the time and space to investigate this and ensure they get to bottom of this."