Residents 'left fearful' after device explodes in Maghera
A loud bang was heard at about midnight on Thursday
- Published
Residents have been left feeling fearful after a device exploded outside a house in Maghera, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has said.
A loud bang was heard in Mullagh Park at about midnight on Thursday.
The explosion caused damage to the windows and brickwork of the vacant house, as well as to the wall of a house opposite.
Police officers and ammunition technical officers attended the scene and took the remains of the device away for examination.
PSNI Sgt Shields said: "This was a distressing experience for residents who are dealing with the fear of this device in their community.
"Thankfully, no one was in this house at the time as this could have caused serious injury or even worse."
A public safety operation has been in place overnight and on Friday morning.
Cordons have been lifted, however, the PSNI has advised the public to avoid the area.
Police have appealed to anyone with information that could assist with their investigation to come forward.