A car exploded outside a police station in Northern Ireland on the night of March 30–31, 2026, according to verified reports from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and multiple news outlets. The incident occurred in the town of Lurgan, County Armagh, when a hijacked vehicle containing an improvised explosive device was driven to the police station under duress. No police officers were injured in the blast, though the device caused significant damage to the vehicle and prompted evacuations in the surrounding area.
The attack began when two masked individuals approached a fast food delivery driver in the Kilwilkie estate of Lurgan on Monday evening. One of the assailants was armed with a gun and they threatened to kill the driver if he did not comply with their demands. After placing an object in the boot of his white Audi, they ordered him to drive to the police station in the centre of Lurgan. Upon arrival, the driver fled the vehicle and alerted security staff, who initiated emergency procedures.
Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson of the PSNI confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that the device was a “crude, but viable improvised explosive device” and stated it was “highly likely” that dissident republican groups were responsible. He emphasized that while the bomb was unsophisticated, it posed a serious risk to the delivery driver, police personnel, and local residents. A controlled explosion was carried out by bomb disposal officers to safely neutralize the device.
Following the incident, roads in Lurgan’s town centre were cordoned off, and approximately 100 homes were evacuated as a precaution. Residents were later allowed to return once the area was declared safe. Superintendent Brendan Green, District Commander for the area, joined Henderson in addressing the media, describing the attack as “horrific and terrifying” for the victim and reiterating that those responsible do not have community support.
The PSNI urged anyone with information about the attack or the individuals involved to come forward, noting that the investigation remains in its early stages. Authorities have not released the identity of the delivery driver, citing concerns for his safety and privacy. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident as of the latest official update.
This event marks one of several recent incidents linked to dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland, though officials stress that such actions lack broad public backing. The PSNI continues to monitor threats and work with communities to prevent further violence. For ongoing updates, the public is advised to consult the official Police Service of Northern Ireland website or follow verified statements from Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson.
If you have any information regarding this incident, contact the PSNI non-emergency line or submit details anonymously through the Crimestoppers platform. Sharing accurate information helps authorities bring those responsible to justice and maintain public safety.