Police have condemned as ‘reckless’ an attack in which a viable device was delivered to a hotel off Derry’s Ebrington Square on the same week tens of thousands are visiting the city for Europe’s largest Halloween festival.

The security operation – which saw employees from several businesses in the area surrounding the public square in the Waterside area of the city evacuated – ended shortly before midnight on Tuesday.

Tens of thousands of people are attending Derry’s Halloween festival, with a fun fair already up and running in the vicinity of Ebrington Square.

Speaking on Tuesday night, PSNI Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney said: “Police received a report at around 3.20pm this afternoon, Tuesday, October 27, that a suspicious package had been delivered to a hotel in the city.

Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney.

placeholder image — Area Commander of Derry City & Strabane, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney.

“Officers attended the scene and a number of people were subsequently evacuated from the premises, along with staff from neighbouring premises, during the public safety operation that followed.

“Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) attended the scene, examined the object, and carried out a controlled explosion on the device which was deemed to be viable. The item has now been taken away for forensic examination and an investigation has commenced.

“I condemn this reckless and targeted attack, and I recognise the significant disruption and distress it has caused to the local community.”

Politicians across the city have expressed disgust at those responsible for the attack.

Foyle DUP MLA Julie Middleton MLA said: “It is deeply disturbing that a viable device has been discovered within the Ebrington site. Those responsible hold no regard for human life, or the want for peace and prosperity in our city.

“Yesterday, at Ebrington square there will have been 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 was found.

“I am hugely thankful to our Police Service for their diligent work this evening in keeping our community calm and safe. I now strongly appeal to anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant you may feel it to be, to please pass this information on to the PSNI.

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

Foyle SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan meanwhile questioned: “Who would place an explosive device in a hotel, risking injury or even worse to the local men and women working there and all those visiting?”

"Whoever is responsible for the incident at Ebrington is no friend of people, no friend of peace and no friend of Derry,” he added.

Justice Minister Naomi Long also condemned the attack. She said: “Those responsible for this viable device have again shown reckless disregard for the community and businesses affected.

"Thanks to the police officers who responded, ensuring the public were kept safe. Their courage is in stark contrast to those intent on destruction.”

Appealing for information, Chief Superintendent Kearney said: “We would appeal to anyone with any information which might assist us to contact 101, quoting reference number 1089 of 27/10/26.

“You can also submit a report or information online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555.”