A 52-year-old is in stable condition after an explosive device detonated under the van he was driving in Belfast. As reported by RTÉ, the explosion happened in the Hillsborough Drive area near Woodstock Road just after 7 am. Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers said: "I utterly condemn this vicious attack on a prison officer in east Belfast. "Like all his colleagues in the prison service, this officer serves the whole of the community, in stark contrast to the people who carried out this appalling and violent crime. "I strongly urge anyone with information about this murder attempt to contact the police to help bring those responsible to justice." The explosion occurred in a unionist/loyalist area. It is though the device may have dislodged from the vehicle after travelling over a speed bump. Detectives are reported to be investigating the circumstances this morning. Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan shared his concern regarding the incident. "Not only was it targeted on an individual public servant, it represented a futile attack on the entire community which is determined to achieve a peaceful and reconciled society in Northern Ireland."