POLICE INVESTIGATING A failed mortar attack that they believe was targeting a police station have released a photo in connection with the item.

Detectives from Serious Crime Branch investigating last night’s attack have released a photo of the holdall. They say police suspect it was used by the terrorists to carry the device to its launch point.

Police believe the blue holdall containing the mortar type device was either carried or wheeled to Lawrence Hill.

They are appealing for anyone who recognises the holdall, which might normally be used to carry sports gear or promotional equipment, to contact them on 0845 600 8000.

They also want to speak to anyone who saw it being carried or wheeled in the Lawrence Hill area last night.

Police believe the intended target was the nearby Strand Road police station and say the device “had all the component parts to make it viable”.

Houses were evacuated due to the find, with close to 1,000 people having to leave their homes because of the alert.

Anyone with information about the device is asked to contact police on 0845 600 8000.

If someone would prefer to provide information anonymously, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them on 0800 555 111.