Pair detained over 'New IRA' bomb attack at off duty officer's home

By David Hunter

Two men have been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of an off duty police officer in Derry /Londonderry. 

It's after an explosive was placed under the officer's car in the Ardanlee area on February 22nd 2017. 

A senior officer believes the New IRA was responsible for the attack.

The 43 and 59 year old suspects are currently in custody. 

The viable Under Vehicle Improvised Explosive Device detonated whislt army bomb experts worked to diffuse it. 

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Peter McKenna said: “If this UVIED had exploded with our colleague and his young family in the car it would have had devastating consequences.

"I believe the New IRA are responsible for this cowardly attack during which they put everyone’s safety at risk as the device was left in a residential area and could have exploded at any time. 

“I would like to thank the public for their assistance to date but I believe there are still people in the community who hold vital pieces of information that could assist police and I would appeal to them to make contact with Detectives."