Sinn Fein condemn what they've described as a North Belfast bomb attack

By Adam Evans

Carál Ní Chuilín says she understands a "viable device" was left at a house near to Carrick Hill last night.

The MLA's told us it caused huge disruption and distress to people in the area.

In a statement the PSNI said a suspicious object was discovered outside a residential property in the Stanhope Street area of Belfast yesterday.

ATO attended the scene and the item, which contained component parts, was taken away for further forensic examination.

Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “A number of residents were moved from their homes during this alert and we are thankful to them for their patience. Those who left this object in a residential area clearly have no regard for the people living here and I am appealing for the community’s support in identifying those responsible.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area to contact detectives at Criminal Investigation Branch, Musgrave on the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference 1188 26/07/17. Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

In a full statement Carál Ní Chuilín said: "A device was left at a house in Carrick Hill causing huge disruption and distress to this residential area populated with families, many with young children"

"My understanding is that this was a viable bomb so this was clearly an extremely reckless incident which endangered the lives of local residents. 

"It is also the second such incident in as many days. The people of North Belfast should not have to put up with this kind of threat and disruption to their lives. 

"They want an end to it and an end to armed groups who bring nothing but misery to this community."