Homes evacuated after explosions reported in Antrim town

Police and British army bomb disposal experts are investigating reports of two explosions in a Co Antrim village.

The explosions occurred around 2am at different addresses in the Brookfield Gardens area of Ahoghill.

Police said there were no reports of any injuries but the front of one of the properties was damaged. A PSNI spokesman said damage had been caused to the front of one of the properties.

The street was closed and a number of homes evacuated as army technical officers examined the scene.

Chief Inspector Stephen McCauley said: “I would like to thank local residents for their patience and co-operation [with the police operation] at this time.

“I would ask anyone who has any information to contact police at Ballymena on the non-emergency number 101. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Sinn Féin councillor for Mid and East Antrim Patrice Hardy has stated that we are extremely fortunate that we are not waking up to death or injury.

Cllr Hardy said: “Reports of a number of explosions in Ahoghill are very worrying.

“We are extremely fortunate that we are not waking up to death or injuries this morning.

“Those behind these incidents cared little for the community they attacked.

“While endangering life we also now have families evacuated from their homes.

“Those behind such attacks need to be taken off our streets.”