Mr Lunn said: “This was a despicable attack aimed at those tasked with upholding the rule of law in Northern Ireland. I completely condemn what can only be described as a horrendous attempt to kill and injure police officers.
“It is further worrying to hear children were able to pick up an unexploded device, which has been described as extremely volatile. We can only be thankful no one was seriously injured or worse.
“I fail to understand why the people behind this attack would act in such a way, aiming their assault not only at the PSNI, but at the local community in west Belfast. Communities across Northern Ireland do not want to see a return to the dark days of our past, but rather want to move forward in building a new society welcoming for everyone.
“Those behind this attack have achieved nothing only to further alienate themselves from the community they claim to represent.”