Viable pipe bomb found in Keady security alert

A VIABLE pipe bomb explosive device was recovered in Keady following a police chase which started in Lurgan.
The find sparked a security alert in Keady yesterday (Wednesday, 22 October), which has now ended.
A police spokesperson said a device examined by police and Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) was found to be a viable pipe bomb.
Detective Inspector Danielle Moffett said: "The viable pipe bomb was located by police in the rear of a car which had made off from officers in Lurgan early this morning, Wednesday 22nd October.
"At around 1.15am a white Toyota Landcruiser was noted in the Lough Road area and checks of police systems revealed the vehicle had no insurance. When signalled to stop by police, the vehicle made off.
"An authorised pursuit was commenced and the car was subsequently stopped with the deployment of a stinger device in Keady, after travelling a considerable distance at speed.
"The occupants of the vehicle, two men aged 22 and 37, were arrested and a search of the car revealed the device, which has now been made safe.
"All roads in the area have now reopened and the arrested men remain in police custody."
Detective Inspector Moffett continued: "Our investigation is ongoing, and we would appeal to anyone with information to contact us on 101, quoting reference 67 22/10/25. You can also report online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport
"Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org "
During the alert the public were urged to avoid the area.
Two roads - Granemore Road and Drumbo Road -were closed and cordons in place as a result of the alert.
Local councillors expressed their concerns a viable device had been found.
Councillor Bróna Haughey said, “I condemn the possession and use of such dangerous devices.
I want to thank the local community for their patience throughout the day. I understand that residents have been frustrated about the lack of communication from the police throughout the day, I will be raising this with them.”
Her words were echoed by her party colleague and MLA Cathal Boylan, “I unequivocally condemn the possession and use of such dangerous devices, which pose a grave threat to the safety and wellbeing of our community.
“I want to thank the local community for their patience throughout the day.
“Sinn Féin will continue to work closely with the authorities to ensure our communities remain safe and secure.”
Condemnation also came from local MP Dáire Hughes who also thanked the local community ‘for their patience throughout the day’.