Suspicious package sent to hotel contained explosive device

Published27 October 2026

A suspicious package delivered to a hotel in Londonderry contained a "viable" explosive device, police have said.

Army bomb experts were sent to the hotel at Ebrington Square in the city's Waterside after the package was discovered at about 15:20 GMT on Tuesday.

They carried out a controlled explosion on the device, which was later taken away for a forensic examination.

Det Supt Kearney of the Police Service of Northern Ireland said: "I condemn this reckless and targeted attack."

The detective said that "a number of people" were evacuated from the hotel, along with staff from neighbouring premises.

A Halloween funfair had been taking place a short distance away from the hotel.

It remained open during the security alert.

Julie Middleton, Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) assembly member for Foyle, described the incident as "deeply disturbing".

She said that on Tuesday, at Ebrington square, there were "families, including children, enjoying the Fun Fair, residents at their workplace, or enjoying a meal, as well as visitors and tourists at a nearby hotel".

"It is deplorable that a viable device placed in such an area," she added.

"To those responsible for this attack, I say shame on you. Your vile actions, wicked thought processes and disgusting behaviour are not welcome," the MLA said.

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Foyle and West

Northern Ireland

Londonderry-Derry

Police Service of Northern Ireland