Grenade Thrown At Police In West Belfast

An overnight grenade attack on a PSNI vehicle in west Belfast was a clear attempt to kill or injure officers, detectives have said.

A police Land Rover was driving in the Falls Road shortly after 2am this morning, Wednesday 04 December, when it was struck by an object on Milltown Row.

A loud bang was heard and the vehicle made its way to safety, sparking a police operation in the area.

No officers were injured and no damage was caused to the vehicle. The remnants of a suspected grenade were recovered and removed for forensic testing.

Further searches were then carried out to ensure public safety and rule out the possibility of other devices in the area.

Chief Superintendent Jonathan Roberts said the attack was an undoubted attempt to kill our injure on duty police officers.

"This despicable act must be condemned by all," he said.

"A full and thorough investigation is underway."

Sinn Fein MP and current Westminster candidate for the area Paul Maskey condemned the attack as "reckless and futile".

He said: "The vast majority of people in west Belfast and beyond want these futile attacks to end immediately.

"Those responsible have nothing to offer but hurt and injury.

"People should do all they can to assist the PSNI in their investigation."

Police have appealed to anyone who noticed any recent suspicious activity in the area or who has any information which may assist with enquiries to contact detectives at Musgrave on 101 quoting reference number 79 04/12/19.

Details can also be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/CM)