Police condemned the attack as reckless and targeted, noting it caused significant disruption and distress to the local community during a Halloween event, with investigators keeping an open mind about suspects, including the possibility of dissident republicans.

Officials said an update would be provided in due course as the investigation progresses.

There were no road closures, but a nearby business premises was evacuated as a precaution.

DUP MLA Julie Middleton said it remained unclear whether the package posed a legitimate threat, a hoax, or another possibility, describing the situation as very worrying.

Authorities urged anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact the PSNI to assist with investigations, with Area Commander Gillian Kearney noting the investigation is in an early stage and keeping multiple lines of inquiry open.

A viable explosive device was found in a package delivered to a hotel at Ebrington Square in Londonderry, prompting a security operation and evacuation of the hotel and nearby properties during the Halloween event.

Derry’s Peace Bridge remained open and the Halloween funfair at the site continued to operate despite the alert.

Army ammunition technical officers conducted a controlled explosion on the device, with security services conducting investigations in the Waterside area and the incident disrupting the local community for hours.

Stormont ministers condemned the attack; Justice Minister Naomi Long praised police for their response and called the incident shameful and dangerous, while urging information from the public.

Local politicians, including Julie Middleton and other DUP representatives, condemned the act, emphasized its disturbing nature, and urged anyone with information to contact PSNI, noting the impact on families, workers, and visitors.