THE BRITISH army has dealt with another two pipe bomb devices in Antrim town.
One device, which partly exploded, was left at an address in the Beechfield. Hours earlier, another device was planted in the Birch Hill area of the town. Three such devices have been planted in 48 hours in the area.
No one has been injured, and no claims of responsibility have so far been received regarding the planting of the latest devices. However, a Belfast newsroom received a claim of responsibility for a device left on the window sill of a home on Fir Grove Lane in the town on Wednesday from a group styling itself the Real UFF.
The latest bomb discoveries have brought widespread condemnation from the political parties and the two governments.
Meanwhile, in Co Tyrone, an Orange hall has been destroyed in an arson attack.
Bonn Orange Hall, near Pomeroy, which was previously attacked in November 2008, was discovered ablaze at about 3am yesterday.
Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness strongly condemned the attack.
Richard Reid, a trustee of the hall, said it would be rebuilt and he condemned those responsible for sectarianism. He was supported in this by DUP Assembly member Ian McCrea.
PSNI Supt Alywin Barton said the arson was designed to provoke tensions within the community.
“I implore you – do not allow yourself to be manipulated by these individuals and their agenda, do not react,” he said.
Mr McGuinness said those responsible were trying to inflame communities in advance of tomorrow’s Apprentice Boys marches across the North.
The arsonists were motivated “solely by sectarian bigotry” and were no different to those who carry out attacks on GAA halls and churches, he said.