The explosive device found in west Belfast yesterday was part of an entirely evil attempt to attack police officers which also caused enormous disruption to the lives of ordinary citizens.
Using what was described as a form of horizontal rocket close to a main road was a completely reckless act which could have had devastating consequences in a densely populated area like Poleglass.
The security operation also meant that for almost three days elderly residents were trapped in their homes and the suspension of public transport caused a range of further difficulties.
There will be relief that the episode ended without injury but there can only be widespread anger that dissident republicans should behave in such a callous and unacceptable way.
