Magherafelt security alert ends after controlled explosion on suspected explosive device
- Love Ballymena
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
A security alert in the Golf Terrace area of Magherafelt has concluded following the discovery of a suspicious object believed to be a viable explosive device.
The incident began at approximately 7.20pm on Saturday, 2nd August, when police received a report of a suspicious item found outside a residential property.
Detective Sergeant Reid of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said:
“Police received a report of a suspicious object outside a residential property at around 7.20pm on Saturday, 2nd August.”
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene and implemented a safety cordon. The road was closed to motorists, and local residents were evacuated overnight as a precaution.
“Officers attended the scene and a safety operation was put in place. The road was closed to motorists and a number of local residents had to be evacuated from their homes overnight,” Detective Sergeant Reid confirmed.
Specialist Ammunition Technical Officers examined the device and carried out a controlled explosion early on Sunday morning. The object was then removed for further forensic analysis.
“Ammunition Technical Officers determined that the object may have been a viable explosive device and carried out a controlled explosion, before residents were able to return to their homes on Sunday morning,” he added.
The police have acknowledged the distress and disruption caused to those affected by the security operation.
“This was an extremely distressing experience for residents, who had to deal with the fear of this device in their community alongside the discomfort and inconvenience of being put out of their homes,” said Detective Sergeant Reid.
Authorities are now appealing to the public for information that could assist in their investigation into the incident.
“The device has been taken away for further examination and detectives are keen to establish the circumstances surrounding this report,” he said.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we appeal to anyone with any information to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1410 02/08/25.”
Information can also be provided via the non-emergency online reporting form at:
Alternatively, the public can contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting: