Gardai have not confirmed that the pipe bomb, which was discovered in the town on Tuesday night, is related to ongoing feuds in the town.
A garda spokesperson told the Advertiser that despite contradicting reports they haven’t identified the source of the pipe bomb, who left it there, or whether or not is was to be used in connection with ongoing feuds in the town.
Gardai are still investigating the discovery of the suspicious device which was found at the edge Mount Temple Road, Moydrum on the outskirts of Athlone late on Tuesday night.
The device, which is believed to be a pipe bomb, was found at the junction close to Casey’s Garage at around 10.45pm on Tuesday October 28. Members of the Army Bomb Disposal Unit were called to the scene and removed the explosive for a technical examination. A Garda spokesman said the road reopened at 12.25am.
A Defence Forces spokesman said the device was viable. The Army Bomb Disposal Unit made the device safe but did not carry out a controlled explosion.
Speaking to the Advertiser, local Sinn Fein councillor, Paul Hogan said he was shocked at the news of a pipe bomb being discovered in the town. He believes that the pipe bomb was brought into the town either to settle disputes between feuding families, or that it is drug related. “The discovery of the pipe bomb at Moydrum Road is both worrying and shocking. I believe the device was left to be collected and was ready for detonation. This find implores the local authority to establish a Joint Policing Committee to address issues such as the growing number of lethal weapons that are being circulated.
“I am frightened to think what destruction this bomb could have done if not discovered. I suspect it was destined to exacerbate the level to which those involved in drug dealing of feuds wish to go, to settle a dispute, and that is both harrowing and horrific. I deplore such activity by these criminals whose existence only serves to be a menace in society. I would like to praise the person who notified the Gardai and army personnel for the manner in which they all contributed to defuse a potentially lethal situation.”
