DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a pipe bomb exploded in the back of a car.

The incident happened on Crebilly Road in Ballymena last night, Friday, June 5.

Shortly after 11pm police received a report that a car had been set on fire close to shops in the area. 

Police attended and observed a suspicious object in the rear of the vehicle. 

ATO were tasked to examine the object that was declared to be the remnants of a pipe bomb type device that had detonated. 

Damage was caused to the car as a result of the incident.

Detective Sergeant Crothers said: “This was a reckless act that had the potential to cause serious injury to anyone who was close to the car when the device detonated.

“Detectives are working to establish a motive and identify those responsible.

“I am appealing to anyone with information, or who noticed any suspicious activity in the area, to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 2092 05/06/20.”

A report can be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org