CCTV image of bicycle bomber hunted by detectives

DETECTIVES investigating a double bomb attack near Derry City Council offices in September last year have issued CCTV footage of the suspected bomber.

Just before 11.00pm on Thursday, 20 September, a Foyle Search and Rescue volunteer found a rucksack on the river embankment to the rear of premises owned by Derry City Council. On examining it, she found a pipe bomb device.

Shortly afterwards, police called to the scene discovered a secondary device attached to a bicycle chained to a railing just a short distance away.

Police today issued cctv footage of the suspected bomber along with photos of the rucksack and a similar bicycle.

The footage shows the bomber wheeling the bicycle along the Foyle river walkway and a short time later retracing his steps, having planted the rucksack and the bike.

Chief Inspector Jon Burrows said: “Either device had the potential to kill or injure anyone in the vicinity, had they exploded. The second device on the bike was timed to go off when the security forces were in the area dealing with the first device in the rucksack.

Chief Inspector Jon Burrows appeals for information over bicycle bomber

“The bike bomb was on a walkway that is frequently used by walkers and joggers and people on their way home from a night out. We were lucky that no one was killed or seriously injured.

“I would appeal to anyone who recognises this individual to contact police on 0845 600 8000 ext 64911. Alternatively, anyone who does not want to provide their details can phone the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Police are also making an appeal in relation to the rucksack and bicycle. They want to hear from anyone who recognises the rucksack or the bicycle. The rucksack is a black Compass model with a blue and red design. The bike is a blue framed Freerider model.

Anyone with information can also email police at seriouscrimebranch@psni.pnn.police.uk