26/05/2004

Van destroyed in pipe bomb attack

A van has been destroyed in a pipe bomb attack in Co Londonderry early this morning.

The explosion, which occurred at Hazeldene Avenue in Magherafelt at around 4.20am, caused minor damage to the front part of the vehicle.

No-one was injured in the attack, however a number of families in the area were evacuated from their homes following the incident.

DUP MLA, William McCrea described the attack as "absolutely disgusting".

"Irrespective of who planted this device, I am saying get off the backs of the people of Magherafelt," he said.

SDLP assembly member for the area Patsy McGlone said he would be meeting with local police chiefs to "discuss what action they are taking to arrest those responsible for these activities".

Police said they were keeping an open mind to who was behind the attack.

(MB)

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