A car bomb exploded outside Dunmurry PSNI Station in south-west Belfast on Saturday night. The device sat inside a hijacked vehicle. A civilian contractor spotted it and alerted authorities before the blast.

PSNI civilian staff member Tracey Godfrey, who has 42 years of service and serves as NIPSA departmental secretary for the PSNI, said the incident reminded her of conditions during the Troubles. She described it as an attack on police officers, staff, contractors and the wider community. Godfrey said all PSNI team members must remain vigilant.

The PSNI linked the bombing to dissident republicans. The New IRA stated it carried out the attack and threatened PSNI employees' homes.

Northern Ireland Justice Minister Naomi Long said the contractor acted effectively to prevent harm from the significant explosion. She called the event a reminder of ongoing security threats. Long stated support for the PSNI and rule of law must come from all parties without conditions. She noted accountability through the Policing Board and Police Ombudsman.

PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher asked all political parties to back the force. DUP leader Gavin Robinson said Sinn Fein should provide visible support for the PSNI beyond statements. Alliance MLA Andrew Muir said parties, particularly Sinn Fein, should increase efforts on PSNI support and recruitment.

Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey said her party supports policing and wants a service representative of the community.