‘A clear attempt to kill’ – explosive device detonated across the border

DISSIDENT republicans are believed to be behind an explosive device that detonated in Co Fermanagh this morning.

Army bomb disposal officers and police were at the scene when the explosion happened at Wattle Bridge close to Newtownbutler at around 10.35am morning. No one was injured.

Bomb disposal officers had been in the area at the weekend responding to reports that a device had been left there.

That item was ultimately declared a hoax, but it is understood another device exploded close-by when a bomb disposal team attended to review the scene.

The Army team of Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) and police were reportedly fortunate to escape without injury.

Dissident republicans opposed to the peace process are believed to be responsible.

PSNI Chief Constable Simon Byrne called the incident a “clear and deliberate attempt to murder”.

He added: “The bomb attack in Fermanagh this morning is a sinister development. A clear and deliberate attempt to murder PSNI officers.

“I strongly condemn these actions and express my sincere thanks to both the Officers and Army personnel for their work in securing the area.”

DUP leader Arlene Foster condemned the attack this afternoon saying her thoughts are with the security forces who escaped injury.

“My thoughts are with the police officers/ATOs who escaped injury in Wattle Bridge. A reminder of the bravery of our security forces. The threat from republican terrorists still exists. It’s time they left the stage & allowed everyone to move on. This was a clear attempt to kill,” she said.