Republicans blamed for prison blast
Dissident republican terrorists were behind an explosion at a high-security prison in Northern Ireland, it was claimed today.
No-one was hurt in the blast in an abandoned jeep outside Maghaberry Prison, near Lisburn, Co Antrim.
But as an investigation was launched, Jeffrey Donaldson, the Ulster Unionist MP for the area, urged the Government to call a halt to its demilitarisation programme while rogue paramilitaries still pose a major threat.
Indicating either Real IRA or Continuity IRA involvement, he told PA News: ‘‘It seems it may have been the work of dissident republicans and represents a further threat to the peace process.
‘‘It also demonstrates why the Government needs to maintain a high level of security.
‘‘Any thought they might have had for further reductions in security should now be set aside.’’
The Police Service of Northern Ireland said a white, jeep-type vehicle was abandoned outside the jail last night and a number of men were seen to make off in a second car.
‘‘A short time later, the jeep exploded,’’ said a force spokesman. ‘‘There are no reports of injuries.’’
The attack comes two weeks after a bomb was detonated at a police training college in east Belfast.
There were no injuries in that explosion, later claimed by the Continuity IRA.
The explosion at Maghaberry occurred at a perimeter gate, usually manned by staff who check identification coming into the jail.
A two minute warning was given, allowing a full evacuation of the area.
Around 700 prison officers and up to 500 prisoners are housed in the complex.
Detectives in Lisburn said the scene was today cordoned off and are appealing for witnesses and information.
Finlay Spratt, chairman of the Prison Officers’ Association, said his members were being targeted continuously.
‘‘They talk about ceasefires, but there’s no ceasefire for prison officers.
‘‘Prison officers are constantly under threat and there have been attacks on prison officers homes in the last five to six months.’’
