Kelly : viable device was ‘height of madness’

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland says the viable postal device sent to a hotel in Derry-Londonderry was ‘the height of madness’.

PFNI Chair Liam Kelly said: “The reckless thugs behind this attack wanted to kill and maim. In their eyes, the more it terrorised people, the more effective it served as a tactic.

“This shows the utter futility of their efforts to destabilise society and create mayhem. This was the eight of madness, plain and simple.

“If this device had detonated, there’s no knowing the damage it would have done. Not for the first time at the hands of these reckless fools, innocent lives were put at risk.

“Our officers are to be commended for their actions as well as Army colleagues who dealt with the lethal device.

“Derry is gearing up for its famous Halloween Festival and I know my colleagues will do everything they can to safeguard families who want to enjoy the wonderful spectacle.”