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LONDON - The first pictures of the letter bombs used to target British businesses have been released by police as animal rights activists denied any connection with the bombings.
The images show one unexploded device still in an A5 padded envelope. The second is of the remains of a bomb which ignited, causing minor injuries.
On Friday, a 48-year-old man was detained under the Mental Health Act after he tried to claim responsibility for sending one of the bombs.
Forensic teams are searching two residential properties in Bracknell and Wokingham in Berkshire in connection with the arrest. But they say they are still investigating other leads and examining several theories, including the possibility that animal rights extremists are responsible.
The names of different protesters were featured on at least two of the packages, including that of Barry Horne, who died in jail. However, animal rights groups have reacted angrily to suggestions that they are responsible for the letter bombings.
Activist Greg Avery said the letter bomber was trying to draw attention away from himself.
"The police are just trying to smear us [the animal rights movement]. If an activist was going to risk a lot of time in jail they would not be sending parcels to the DVLA [Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency]."
- INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY
