A Strabane resident who had a bomb thrown through his window picked it up and threw it back out.

A device was thrown through the window of the Melmount Villas home on Monday just before 9pm before the resident launched it into a nearby field.

A security alert swung into operation and the Army called to the scene.

Chief Inspector Alan Hutton said: “Police attended the scene last night and the device was made safe by ATO and recovered by police for further examination.

“One home was evacuated during the alert, and we are thankful to the local community for their patience and co-operation whilst we dealt with this device, which we believe, at this stage, to be viable.

“Those who left it have clearly no regard for the people living here. This was a reckless attack on the local community, which could have caused serious harm, and I am appealing for the community’s support in identifying the perpetrators.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area to contact detectives at Strand Road Criminal Investigation Branch, by calling 101 and quoting reference 1314 07/08/17 or, if they wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Belfast Telegraph