A young boy lifted the remains of a pipe bomb-type device from the garden of a house in the Waterside area of Londonderry.
Police say while this was not a live device, the fact a young boy lifted it, shows the blatant disregard for residents by those responsible for leaving it there.
Detectives in Derry/Londonderry are investigating the incident which occurred last night (Tuesday) just before 10pm at Curlew Way.
Detective Inspector Michael Winters said enquiries are at an early stage, but it appears at this time the device had detonated prior to it being lifted by the young boy.
“While this was not a live device, the fact a young boy found it and lifted it shows the blatant disregard by those responsible for leaving it there. It was completely reckless.
“I want to appeal to anyone who has information about this to contact detectives at Strand Road on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 2084 of 21/05/19,” he said.
Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.
Detective Inspector Winters is asking the public to report any suspicious objects immediately.