A stash of pipe bomb parts were tonight seized by the RUC at a "manufacturing base" in Larne, Co Antrim.
Component parts for 11 pipe bombs were uncovered following a planned search of derelict houses in the predominantly Protestant Antiville estate on the town.
A balaclava, surgical gloves and the remains of a number of fireworks were also found at the rear of a garden in the Fairway area.
No arrests were made.
The discovery was welcomed by the nationalist SDLP representative in the town, Mr Danny O'Connor. "Hopefully it's the first of many successes against terrorism in Larne," he said.
Already this year there have been more than 30 pipe bombings in the North in what is being seen as a sectarian campaign waged against Catholics.
Although Larne has been one of the areas which has suffered most, attacks have occurred in towns across Co Antrim and Co Derry.
The loyalist UDA has been accused of stoking up tensions in recent weeks through a campaign of attacks on Catholic homes, schools and churches.
An RUC spokesman said a motive for the attack was being investigated.
PA