A prison officer is understood to have been the target of a failed bomb attack in Lisburn.
Police believe the device may have been an under-car booby trap bomb that fell off a vehicle as it made its way through Market Square in the County Antrim town on Saturday (July 30).
They described it as a “viable” device that could have injured members of the public.
In a follow-up operation, a car was seized in the Lagmore area of West Belfast and taken away for examination.
Superintendent Brian Kee hit out at those responsible.
“The device was discovered in Market Place just before 2pm,” he said. “The surrounding area was immediately sealed off and a number of nearby businesses were evacuated while ATO examined the device.
“It was subsequently determined that the device was viable. It was made safe and has been taken away for further forensic examination.
“This device was discovered in the centre of the city on a busy Saturday afternoon where, had it exploded, could have killed or injured anyone in the vicinity.
“This completely reckless act not only endangered members of the public but also caused massive inconvenience, disruption and upset for the local community of Lisburn.
“I would like to thank the members of the public for their patience and cooperation during this operation. Those responsible for this device have shown total disregard for the safety of the community.
“As part of a follow-up operation in the Lagmore area of Belfast last night, a vehicle was seized for examination.”
Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann condemned the attack.
"The discovery of a bomb in Lisburn and a follow up search operation in the Lagmore area of West Belfast is very concerning and must be condemned,” she said. "Thankfully no-one was injured in this incident. There can be no place for, and no justification for, attacks like this in our society.
"This community is moving forward and does not want to be dragged back to the past with things like this."
Superintendent Kee appealed for witnesses.
“We are keen to hear from witnesses or anyone who was in the Market Place area of Lisburn yesterday (Saturday) and who may have information that could assist the investigation. Detectives can be reached by calling 101 quoting reference 686 30/07/16.
If someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
