Pipe bomb found outside police station

An unexploded pipe bomb was found in the grounds of a police station in west Belfast, it was revealed today.

Army bomb experts were called and the Woodbourne complex was evacuated while the object was examined. They said it was a “viable pipe bomb”.

It was seen at the back of the barracks on Saturday afternoon.

West Belfast area commander Chief Inspector Emma Mooney said: “The people responsible have one clear aim – to kill or injure the police officers and staff working there.

“It is sheer luck that this has not been the result of these two attacks.”

She said police have been taking steps to improve Woodbourne station through a series of enhancement works due to begin at the end of the month.

“The community has told us they want these improvements made. However, attacks like this put all that in jeopardy,” she added.