Detectives have launched an appeal for information following a security alert in the Oakvale Terrace area of Upperlands on Saturday, 21 February.

The police were alerted to the situation at approximately 5:10pm. Upon arrival, officers established several cordons to secure the residential area. Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) were called to the scene to examine the object and subsequently confirmed that it was a viable device.

While cordons have since been lifted, a police presence remains in the village as investigators continue their enquiries. Detectives are particularly interested in any suspicious activity that may have occurred in the vicinity between 10:00pm on Thursday, 19 February and 2:00am on Friday, 20 February. Detective Inspector Keon said: "Following a report to police around 5.10pm, officers attended and a number of cordons were put in place. Ammunition Technical Officers attended the scene and confirmed the discovery of a viable device. There is still a police presence in the area while enquiries are ongoing and I would appeal to anyone who saw anything unusual, or who may have dashcam, CCTV or other video footage, to contact us on 101, quoting reference 1144 of 21/2/26."

The Police Service of Northern Ireland is urging anyone with video footage or information that could assist the investigation to come forward. Reports can be submitted via the non-emergency 101 number or through the PSNI's online reporting form. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers.

Detective Inspector Keon added: "We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who might have seen anything unusual in the area between 10pm on Thursday, February 19 and 2am on Friday, February 20. You can also submit a report online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."