Viable pipe bomb device found near war memorial in Northern Ireland

A viable pipe bomb was discovered near a war memorial in Omagh, Northern Ireland, prompting police to divert a Remembrance Day march and postpone a wreath-laying ceremony at the town’s cenotaph.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed the device was “small but potentially dangerous” and was safely removed for further examination. While no injuries were reported, the incident caused significant disruption on a day meant for solemn reflection.

Context: A Painful History of Violence in Northern Ireland

In 1998, a bomb planted by the dissident republican group Real IRA killed 29 people in the town’s busiest shopping area—one of the deadliest attacks in Northern Ireland’s history. The discovery of this latest device was particularly poignant, as it coincided with the 30th anniversary of the IRA bombing in Enniskillen, which killed 12 people at a Remembrance Day event in County Fermanagh.

PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton condemned the act as a “sickening and appalling attack” on a day meant to unite communities in remembrance.

While many associate unexploded ordnance (UXO) with historical conflicts, incidents like this highlight that modern explosive threats remain a reality. From historical munitions to deliberate attacks, the risk posed by explosive devices requires expert handling and risk management.

Brimstone UXO

At Brimstone UXO, we specialise in unexploded ordnance risk management, ensuring safety in environments where explosive hazards may be present. As the UK’s only government-assured UXO company, our work spans from construction site risk assessments to international conflict zones, helping safeguard communities from explosive threats.

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