The MP for East Derry, Gregory Campbell, said he believed the blast at an army training ground was the work of republican terrorists.
‘‘It may not necessarily have been planted last night. This is very open territory and it could have been planted some time ago.’’
Mr Campbell, a member of the Democratic Unionist party, said the attack showed the utter futility of closing down army bases and dismantling watch towers when terrorists were continuing to operate in Northern Ireland.
‘‘It’s the latest in a long line of incidents in this area. There have been attacks on Ballykelly army base, Ebrington army base and Claudy police station. We have to hope and pray that the person who has been injured fully recovers.’’
An army spokesman said the incident was still being investigated.
‘‘We can confirm that an incident took place at Magilligan military training centre late this morning. One person has been injured but we have got no further details at this point.’’