A New Lodge mother of two who had her car shot into in January says she is ‘terrified’ after a pipe bomb was left at the same vehicle outside her home this week.
Lindsey Ward says Wednesday’s attack, when a device described by the PSNI as ‘viable’ was left at her Spamount Street home, is the sixth time her house has been directly targeted.
The 29-year-old lives with her two children aged seven and 10. She says their lives were put at risk by the bombers.
“I got up yesterday morning (June 18) and there was another one there. It’s unbelievable. I have pleaded with them to stop but they aren’t listening.
“I don’t want to leave my home. I just want these people to leave me alone. When’s this going to end? Why are they doing this? They are putting our lives at risk.”
Lindsey says she is very concerned about her kids.
“I’m having to tell them it wasn’t outside our door so as they’re not scared. They’re only young. But I am terrified. These are dangerous people. Anyone who could do that with two kids in the house is capable of anything.”
Lindsey’s father Sammy Ward, a founder member of the IPLO, was killed by republicans in 1992. After January’s gun attack in which shots were fired into her empty car, Lindsey said she didn’t want another death in the family.
“My Daddy was killed so I don’t want to lose anyone else. This has to stop.”
This week’s incident is the fourth time in which she has been targeted with an explosive device.
“When I lived in Stratheden Street they left two pipe bombs outside my house, and last year they put another pipe bomb outside here (Spamount Street).”
Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín slammed those responsible.
“Those criminal elements who have left a pipe bomb in a busy street have shown utter disregard for this community.
“Spamount Street is populated with families, many with young children and young people, some of whom had to be evacuated from their homes.
“To leave a viable device is more than reckless, it is endangering the lives of the people who live here. I would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious to report it to the PSNI.”
A PSNI spokesman said investigations were continuing.
“Army Technical Officers examined a suspicious object and have declared it a viable device.
“Police would ask anyone who may have information about this incident to contact them on the non emergency number 101. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
