A viable device has been found during a security alert in Craigavon.
Police say they believe it was an attempt by dissident republicans to murder police officers.
They have condemned what they have called a ‘cowardly and despicable act of terrorism.’
A call was received by a Belfast newspaper from a caller claiming a device had been fired at a police patrol but had missed its target.
Chief Inspector Barney O’Connor said police received a report of a loud bang at Tullygally Road at midnight.
“We responded along with ATO colleagues and a suspicious object was located. A full security clearance operation was implemented and this is continuing at present.
“At this stage we believe the device to be viable and that this was an attempt by dissident republican terrorists to murder police officers,” he said.
And he said it is still unclear if the device was fired at a passing patrol, or if this attack was set up in such a way as to target those police officers responding to the reports from the public.
“I cannot condemn strongly enough those behind this cowardly and despicable act of terrorism. They offer nothing to this community and their actions here do not reflect the wishes of the vast majority of the law abiding residents of this area.
“I would appeal to anyone who could assist our investigation and help us identify the perpetrators to please get in touch with us by calling 101, or by calling the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111,” he added.
The device will be taken away for forensic examination.