Two infants and several residents narrowly escaped harm when a car bomb exploded outside the Dunmurry Police Station, southwest of Belfast city centre. The incident unfolded late Saturday evening, stirring fears of renewed violence linked to dissident republican groups.
Hijacked Vehicle Used in Deadly Attempt Near Police Station
Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton revealed that a delivery driver’s car was forcibly seized in the Twinbrook area of west Belfast. A gas cylinder device had been concealed in the vehicle’s boot, and the driver was coerced into delivering it to Dunmurry police station around 10:50pm.
Upon arrival, the hijacked car was abandoned directly outside the station’s entrance. Officers responded instantly, bravely rushing toward the threat to evacuate nearby homes.
“Several residents, including two babies, were being escorted to safety when the device detonated,” said Mr. Singleton. The explosion engulfed the vehicle in flames and scattered debris across the area. He condemned the attack as “cowardly” and emphasized the officers’ courageous response in minimizing casualties.
Links to Previous Attacks and Ongoing Investigation
Mr. Singleton highlighted parallels with a similar attack targeting Lurgan Police Station in March. Early investigations suggest the New IRA, a prominent dissident republican faction, may be responsible. Counter-terrorism units have taken charge of the inquiry.
Political Leaders Condemn the Attack
Prime Minister Keir Starmer swiftly condemned the assault, pledging that “those responsible will be brought to justice.” He expressed solidarity with the local community and praised PSNI officers for their dedication to public safety.
Brendan Mullan, chairman of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, stressed the malicious intent behind the attack: “The device was designed to kill officers and inflict maximum harm.”
First Minister Michelle O’Neill of Sinn Féin denounced the perpetrators, stating they “speak for absolutely no one” and lack any vision or support within society. “Our communities deserve peace,” she affirmed.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson described the attack as “deeply concerning” and called for the full application of law against any attempts by dissident republicans to intimidate communities or target police officers.
UK Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn labeled the explosion “shameless and cowardly,” expressing his shock and condemnation.
Background on Dissident Republican Activity
The New IRA represents the largest and most active dissident republican group currently in Northern Ireland. Formed from splinters opposing the Provisional IRA’s ceasefire, the group has claimed responsibility for several attacks in recent years.
Historically, factions like the Real IRA, responsible for the devastating 1998 Omagh bombing, have opposed peace agreements through violent means.
Just last month, a similar plot unfolded when a delivery driver was forced at gunpoint to transport a crude but viable explosive device to Lurgan Police Station, an incident also attributed to dissident republicans.
