An unexploded pipe bomb was defused today in Coleraine, Co Derry, scene of other attacks in recent months.
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It was discovered at the back of a house on Loughanhill Park. A number of neighbouring homes were evacuated while an army bomb disposal expert dealt with it.
Chief Insp Nigel Kyle said: "These are crude and indiscriminate and lethal devices which have no place in a civilised society.
"Fortunately to date most devices have been found by adults but it is only a question of time before a child picks one up and maybe innocently interferes with the object, leading to serious injury or death.
"People in the community must have some information about the identity of the evil perpetrators involved. I would urge everyone to give us their support in order to break this barbaric cycle of violence," he said.
A sectarian motive has been ruled out in the latest incident.
The RUC is also investigating reports that shots were fired and a blast bomb thrown in the Limestone Road and Newington Street areas of Belfast overnight.
There was sporadic trouble in the area, and police officers were attacked with stones.
A RUC spokesman said community leaders worked to calm the situation, and the area was reported quiet at about 5 a.m.