‘Crude explosive device’ outside home of Martin Finucane

Police are dealing with a security alert in west Belfast, after a “crude explosive device” was left outside the home of Martin Finucane – brother of murdered solicitor Pat Finucane.

The device, in the Glenties Drive area, was discovered on Thursday morning.

According to the PSNI, no homes have been evacuated as a result.

The crude device failed to ignite. Credit: Pacemaker

Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey has condemned those responsible, adding: “This attack is reckless and shows a callous disregard for the Finucane family and the local community.

“This is an attack on a justice and human rights campaigner and as such is an attack on the whole community.

“Those behind this device have nothing to offer society.

Mr Maskey added: “I would call on anyone with any information on those responsible for this attack on a home to bring it forward to the police.”

Two people in the house at the time escaped injury. Credit: Pacemaker

Police say it was reported shortly after 6.30am that an object had been thrown at the front window of the house causing the outer pane of glass to smash.

The device failed to ignite and a vehicle was heard making off from the scene.

Detective Sergeant Keith Wilson said: “A motive for this attack has not yet been established. We are extremely fortunate no one was injured in what was a reckless act in a built up area."

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.

  • Our Correspondent Sharon O'Neill reports: