Maghera community shaken after late-night blast damages homes

Police are appealing for information following a late-night explosion outside a vacant property in Maghera, County Londonderry, which caused structural damage to two homes and alarmed local residents.

A device exploded outside an empty house in the Mullagh Park area around midnight on Thursday, 7 August, prompting a major police response and the deployment of ammunition technical officers.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that a report was received of a “loud bang” heard in the area shortly before midnight.

Upon arrival, officers discovered that a device had detonated outside a property, damaging its windows and brickwork, and also damaging the wall of a house opposite.

Sergeant Shields, speaking about the incident, said:

“Our officers attended the scene with ammunition technical officers who have taken away the remnants of this device for further examination.”

He added:

“This was a distressing experience for residents who are dealing with the fear of this device in their community. Thankfully, no one was in this house at the time as this could have caused serious injury or even worse.”

A public safety operation was launched overnight and into Friday morning. While cordons have since been lifted and local access restored, police are advising the public to avoid the area or use alternative routes if possible.

Sergeant Shields also urged the public to assist with the ongoing investigation:

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information which might assist us to contact 101, quoting reference number 1848 of 07/08/25.”

Information can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.