Police probe after bomb attacks

The attack was in a quiet rural area

Police have said they are investigating a possible racial motive for pipe bomb attacks on two homes in County Armagh.

The houses at Brooke Manor and Milltown in Ahorey are occupied by Lithuanians who work in a nearby poultry factory.

A family of four, including a ten-year-old boy, were in one house. Three young men live in the other.

The devices were put through the letter boxes of the houses shortly after midnight. Minor damage was caused in the explosions, but no-one was injured.

The area was cordoned off while Army technical officers examined the scene. A number of items were taken away.

Superintendent Bob Moore, PSNI district commander, condemned the attack.

"I think it is a credit to these people who have gone back to their work today," he said.

Police appeal

"They live in the community, they work in the community, they obviously want to be part of this community.

"The 10-year-old child has gone to school today. It is a credit to them that they are not going to be put off by this."

UUP councillor Jim Speers said incidents like this had to end.

"I would appeal to anyone with information in relation to this or indeed any other attack to come forward, sooner rather than later. Tragically there could be loss of life."

Councillor Gareth Wilson, DUP, said the attack was "very worrying".

"It is a total disgrace that these people who have come over to earn some money to keep their families back home, have been attacked in this way," he said.

Police have appealed for information.