Bomb at Tyrone base

Press Association

A policewoman escaped injury when a bomb exploded near an Army base in Northern Ireland, it was revealed today.

The blast happened in Dungannon, Co Tyrone, late last night after police had moved into the area to carry out searches following a number of telephone warnings of a device having been planted.

The bomb partially exploded outside the Killymeal Road base as the woman officer was checking around the perimeter fence.

She was near the device at the time but was not hurt, said a police spokesman.

Army bomb disposal experts were sent in and a nearby leisure centre evacuated. The remainder of the bomb was made safe early today.

Dissident republicans were believed to be behind the bombing. They were also thought likely to have been responsible for a gun attack on a police station in Armagh last night.

A burst of several shots was fired at the police station on the Newry Road in the city.

The shots are believed to have come from a car speeding past the base. No-one was injured.

Northern Ireland Secretary Paul Murphy today condemned the attacks.

Mr Murphy said: ``Last night`s attacks on PSNI officers will be greeted with contempt right across the community.

``Police officers work on behalf of the whole of society and an attack on them is an attack on all of us.``

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Just what the fuck are the CIRA playing at? As a paramilitary group opposed to the elections of a government they don't accept, acknowledge or recognise, that is a fucking pathetic attempt at disruption. It's probably not my position to talk, but it all just seems fuckin amateurish. Come back Provos, all is forgiven!

Apparently there's going to be more than 2,000 extra peelers being deployed during the time of voting to stop terrorist attacks. Going by this attack it's a waste of money and man-power.

I hope the CIRA come up with something a hell of a lot bigger and better tomorrow.

And this time wire it up properly lads...