An improvised explosive device, housed in a beer keg, has been discovered at Camlough Lake.
The device, similar to one found in Keady earlier this month, was placed close to the water’s edge.
SDLP MLA Justin McNulty said the “bomb” was a viable device, a discovery he said was “very frightening news”.
“This is mindlessly reckless and has to be condemned outright,” said Mr McNulty.
“Those responsible are deluded if they think they have any support for their actions.
“This crude and viable device was left at one of south Armagh’s most popular beauty sports. It could have killed.
“It is frightening to think there are those in our community hell bent on dragging us back to the dark days of our past.
“I have spoken with senior Police Officers and have conveyed my disgust and anger at this incident. This isn’t the first incident of this type, just last week a similar device was found at Clay Lake outside Keady.
“This incident must be condemned by all right thinking people and those responsible need to realise their futile and life endangering acts have been rejected by the people of this island.”
Slieve Gullion area Sinn Féin Councillor Oonagh Magennis commented: “The discovery of this suspicious device has caused serious inconvenience to local residents and those motorists using this busy route.
“The device is currently being examined and we await further updates. In the meantime I would ask motorists to follow the diversions.”
Newry & Armagh DUP Assemblyman William Irwin slammed those responsible.
“This is yet another reckless incident which is bringing yet further disruption and indeed risk to people in the area. I understand that the device is being examined by technical teams and hopefully this device can be safely dealt with.
He added: “Looking at the pictures it certainly is worrying to see and it has obviously been designed to injure or kill.
“This type of reckless action really is beyond reason and any right thinking person would outrightly condemn this activity. I thank again the PSNI and security forces for their swift actions in dealing with this very real threat to public safety.
“There have been a number of security alerts in recent days and indeed a similar device was placed at Clay Lake Keady. This is a further escalation of this worrying trend. I would call on those behind this activity to cease immediately and would ask the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the PSNI.”
Read more: Two Keady security alerts in a week with ‘crude homemade explosive’ found in beer keg
