A PIPE bomb found outside a Co Derry house last night was found by firefighters responding to a 999 call-out.
The device was found at Ard Na Smoll in Dungiven where the viable explosive device was discovered on the doorstep.
Gavin Watson who lives in the house with his girlfriend and young child says he may have to move.
But he says he has no idea why his home has been targeted.
Police are investigating possible links to the device and recent bomb finds in Feeny and Drumsurn,
They are hunting two men seen running away from the property around 9 pm.
The planting of the pipe bomb has been condemned by local Sinn Fein councillor Sean McGlinchey.
“This is the third incident over the past few weeks which has led to disruption of the local community.
“And that is all those people behind this have achieved – disruption of the local community.”
The alert is continuing Army Technical Officers make the device safe.
Local police commander Superintendent John Magill said: “The device that was made safe at Dungiven last night was viable.
“It could have injured or killed individuals.
“It was discovered by firefighters when they turned out to deal with two wheelie bins on fire at a house at Ard Na Smoll.
“Those firefighters, are local people giving up their time to help local communities in emergencies, and were put at risk by this device.
“This is the third viable device uncovered in the Dungiven area in the past four weeks.
“These incidents are not wanted in the Dungiven area, the condemnation of local political leaders and members of the community demonstrates that.
“As well as being unwelcome, the devices have led to the disruption of the lives of many individuals.
“Once again the message to those behind the devices is ‘get off the backs of the community’.
“While it is early to comment on a motive or who was behind last night’s device, the potential that is was linked to the other two cannot at this stage be ruled out.
“The particular appeal from detectives is for information about any unusual activity in the area.
“In particular we want to hear more about two men seen running away at about 9pm.”
Information can be given to police on the 101 non-emergency number, or alternatively to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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