Derry bomb: Eglinton homes evacuated after lethal device found under police car

Police of Northern Ireland — Fifteen homes were evacuated in the early hours of the morning after a potentially lethal bomb was found in Derry Getty

Bomb disposal experts in Northern Ireland have evacuated and sealed off 15 homes in Derry after a lethal bomb was found under a police car.

Army technical officers were also called to the scene at Glenrandel and remain there alongside police officers after the device was reported at 2.45am today (18 June).

District commander superintendent Mark McEwan said the bomb would have proved lethal if it was detonated.

"We can confirm that this was an Under Vehicle Improvised Explosive Device capable of causing death or serious injury under the car of a serving police officer," he said.

"This device had the potential to harm not only the officer but anyone in that residential area and those involved have shown a blatant disregard for human life.

"This is yet another example of the cowardly elements in our society who show no regard for the safety of local residents and the police officers who serve their community."

McEwan added those responsible are still intent on causing "murder and mayhem".

DUP MLA Gary Middleton blamed dissident republicans for the bomb, while Sinn Fein councillor Paul Fleming said the perpetrators wanted to "drag us back to the past".