The First and Deputy First Minister have condemned the discovery of a bomb under a serving female police officer's car in Co Derry.
The security alert at Ballyquin Road, Dungiven, remains ongoing following a report yesterday morning of a suspicious object in the area.
ACC Mark McEwan, Head of the PSNI ’s Crime Operations Department, said: “I can confirm that the device is viable and investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.
“We are treating this as an attack on a member of staff who also serves her community as a part-time police officer.”
First Minister Arlene Foster described the incident as "reckless".
She said: "I have spoken to the police officer who was targeted by terrorists last night in County Londonderry. I wanted to convey our support and utter condemnation of those who sought to harm her & her family. Reckless and futile. We salute her bravery and long service to our community.
"There will be political disagreements, but Northern Ireland must keep moving forward. We will not be dragged back to bombs & bullets."
Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill described the incident as "reprehensible".
She said: "The attempted murder of a police officer near Dungiven is reprehensible.
"Those involved in this attack will not succeed in their regressive and toxic agenda. All politicians must unite against these reckless actions. We must keep building the peace for our children."
SDLP MLA Cara Hunter also condemned the attack on the serving PSNI officer.
She said: "I fully condemn the attack of a serving police officer in Dungiven yesterday with a device left on their car. No one should have to live in fear of going to work. Our officers protect our communities everyday & keep them safe. My thoughts are with the officer and their families."
We will bring you live updates on this developing story HERE.
