The viable device was found in the driveway of a house in Bandon on Thursday night, sparking an evacuation by gardaí of the home and neighbouring houses.

The man living at the house is known for developing sites for use by the International Protection Accommodation Service (Ipas) - some of which have been targeted by protests and attacks.

The suspected target of the pipe bomb has previously spoken publicly about fears for his and his family's safety from anti-immigrant agitators.

Garda HQ is taking the development very seriously, the Irish Examiner understands.

Specialist Garda units, including the SDU, are believed to be supporting local detectives with their investigations.

It has been stressed that garda inquiries are at an early stage and that the investigation team will examine all possible explanations and theories behind the incident.

Gardaí are talking to the suspected target to determine what, if any, incidents have happened recently that might be potentially relevant and worth following up on.

Neighbours were evacuated around 7pm on Thursday and permitted to return to their homes at 10pm.

The Defence Forces’ Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team removed the suspected bomb, and ballistics tests were to be carried out on it.

No one was believed to be in the targeted house at the time, but a neighbour noticed the device and reported it.

Gardaí appear to have narrowed down a key time in their investigation - during Thursday afternoon - possibly concerning the potential suspects who planted the device.

A statement issued this morning said: “Gardaí are appealing for witnesses following the discovery of an explosive device in Bandon, Co. Cork, on Thursday 18 June 2026". 

It said no injuries have been reported and that gardaí have conducted a technical examination of the scene.

It made this appeal: “Anyone who was in the Laurel Walk, Allen Square, North Main Street/Dunmanway road areas of Bandon Town, West Cork between the hours of 2:50pm and 3:30pm on the 18 of June 2026 who may have seen anything unusual is asked to contact the investigating Gardaí.” 

It said: “Anyone with mobile phone or dash cam footage from the Laurel Walk, Allen Square, North Main Street/ Dunmanway road areas between 2:50pm and 3:30pm on Thursday 18th of June is also asked to make that footage available.” 

It said people can contact Bandon Garda Station on 023-8852200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.