Barry Anthony Toman, 48, of Drumnamoe Avenue in Lurgan, appeared by video link at Craigavon Magistrates' Court charged with attempted murder of persons unknown. The charges relate to an incident on March 30 when a pizza delivery driver was hijacked in the Kilwilkie area of Lurgan and compelled to drive a vehicle to Lurgan PSNI Station.

A Detective Chief Inspector told the court the device was a timer-powered pipe bomb containing low explosive, shrapnel, and jars of flammable liquid. The bomb failed to detonate. Army technical officers made it safe after police cordoned the area and evacuated nearby premises.

The officer stated DNA matching Toman appeared on five components of the device, including an AA battery, a screw, tape on wires, and a battery compartment edge. Cell site analysis placed Toman's phone in the area of the incident. His home is near the alleyway where the hijacking occurred.

CCTV captured two males approaching the driver, one placing the device in the car boot while the other made threats. The phone order for the delivery came from a prepaid phone topped up by a 15-year-old with a £20 note shortly before. A photo of £20 and £10 notes was on Toman's phone around that time.

Toman gave no comment during nine police interviews totaling over five hours. After DNA evidence was presented, he issued a statement explaining contact with batteries and screws from construction work. The defence questioned DNA quality, noting partial and mixed samples, and limitations of cell site data.

The judge ruled police established a connection to the charges. No bail application was made. Toman was remanded in custody until June 5.

Police arrested three people on Wednesday in connection with the incident. A 39-year-old woman faces charges of obstructing police and is due in court on June 3. She was released unconditionally on other related charges. The 15-year-old was released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.