Tuesday, February 18

Man injured when device detonated under vehicle is prison officer


 

 

A man injured when an explosive device detonated under a vehicle in Belfast is a prison officer, sources said. The incident happened in the Woodstock Road area in the east of the city.

The extent of the man’s injuries is not known. Security sources have indicated he is a serving prison officer.

It is understood he was driving a van when the device detonated. Detectives are examining whether the bomb dislodged from the vehicle as it was going over a speed bump. The finger of suspicion will point at dissident republicans opposed to the Northern Ireland peace process.

Police Service of Northern Ireland Superintendent Darrin Jones said: We believe a device has exploded under a vehicle. The incident was reported to police at 7.10am this morning Friday March 4. One man has been taken to hospital. His condition is not known at this time.

Woodstock Road has been closed at its junctions with Omeath Street and Ravenhill Avenue. Emergency services are at the scene.

Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster condemned the incident. Disgraceful and despicable attack in east Belfast, she said.