Alliance Policing Board representative John Blair MLA has condemned those who planted a viable device at the home of a police officer near Dungiven.

The device was discovered on Monday (April 19), with the Ballyquin Road remaining closed as police examine the scene.

“My thoughts are with the officer, her colleagues and her loved ones. This attack was not just on this officer but on the entire community,” said Mr Blair.

“It was entirely possible we could be standing here today talking about the death or serious injury of a police officer, someone who has decided to serve the entire community, or indeed members of the public. It is vital all in politics and public life offer their full support to police at this time.

“Those who planted this device want to drag us back to the dark days of the past, one in which violence was commonplace. That is not the modern Northern Ireland the vast majority of people want to see and it is vital they are taken off the streets.

“If anyone has any information on this horrendous incident, I urge them to give it to the PSNI immediately.”