Sinn Féin vice president Michelle O’Neill has condemned an attack on two police officers in Strabane in what has been described as a ‘reprehensible’ act.
The PSNI are investigating what it believes to be the attempted murder of the officers in the Mount Carmel Heights area of the Co Tyrone town on Thursday night.
Police say a vehicle was damaged in the attack, and they believe an improvised explosive device was used, while a security alert closed off the Mount Carmel Heights area on Friday morning.
READ MORE: Strabane bomb alert: PSNI investigating 'attempted murder' of officers
There has been widespread condemnation of those responsible for the alleged attack, with the First Minister designate saying they "will not succeed in dragging society backwards".
Ms O’Neill said: “Any attempt to attack or kill police officer’s is reprehensible. Those involved in this attack will not succeed in dragging society backwards.
“We must all unite against these reckless actions. We must keep building the peace and moving forward.”
Representatives from across the political spectrum came out to condemn the attack.
West Tyrone DUP MLA Tom Buchanan described the attack as "murderous" and said his thoughts were with the officers involved.
Mr Buchanan said: “I grew up with daily news reports of police officers being murdered. It was wrong then and it is wrong today.
“I condemn this murderous incident. I am glad the police officers have survived this attempt to take life. My thoughts are with them and their families.”
Attending an event in Newry on Friday morning, Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin said that those responsible for the explosion need to be brought to justice “quickly”.
Mr Martin added: “Any such attempt to injure or to murder members of security forces and the PSNI, in particular, will be absolutely shocking
“It stands to be condemned in the most comprehensive manner.”
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