Detonated device found in County Down

There have been a spate of violent attacks over the past few weeks

Police were called to County Down over an exploded device today (PETER MUHLY/AFP/Getty Images)

In the latest of a series of violent attacks in Northern Ireland, a detonated explosive device has been found in County Down.

Police were called to the scene after a suspicious object was found near Barracric Road in Newry.

The railway line which runs between Newry and Dundalk, which crosses into the Irish Republic, was closed as army bomb disposal experts worked in the area.

No one was injured in the blast, the Police Service of Northern Ireland said, and confirmed that the object was a "viable explosive device" that had already detonated.

PSNI inspector Lorraine Dobson asked for anyone who had noticed suspicious activity in the area over recent days to come forward.

The incidents have been blamed on dissident republicans who are opposed to the peace process.

Over the past few weeks, bombs have gone off near Army and Probation Office building in Londonderry, and there have been attempts to injure police officers in Belfast. Sinn Fein representatives have also been sent death threats.

Martin McGuiness, the Deputy First Minister, was victim to a paint bomb attack, while cars belonging to other members were set alight.

In an attempt to stop the attacks, more police officers have been put on the ground.

Additional reporting by PA