Ulster Unionist MLA Ross Hussey has accused those responsible for leaving two viable bombs in Strabane within 24 hours of each other as displaying a murderous intent.
The West Tyrone MLA said;
“The device found on Strabane Golf Club on Monday was clearly a bomb designed to injure and kill indiscriminately. Once again however I have to question how attacking golfers will in anyway assist a campaign towards an united Ireland. These are just ordinary criminals and killers who are no more driven by the constitutional issue than a murderous desire to inflict maximum human suffering.
“The device on Monday was packed with nuts and bolts so it was clearly intended to inflict injury and death so I would pay credit to the PSNI and in particular to the usual courageous work of the bomb squad.
“Unfortunately not content at leaving a bomb at the Golf Club, a further device was later discovered on Tuesday morning on Townsend Street in the town. Again it was left in a location, a back alley, which would have been frequently used by residents and members of the public.
“The people behind these attacks need to realise they have no support amongst the wider public for their actions. If they want to speak for the people, or make a particular political argument, I would challenge them to seek a mandate in next month’s election. I doubt they will however as they appear more interested in criminality than promoting some constitutional and political agenda, no matter how flawed it may be.”