Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey has condemned the disruption to residents and businesses in west Belfast caused by a security alert, that was later declared a hoax.
Police received a report shortly before 8am on Sunday that a suspicious object had been discovered outside a property in the Springfield Road area.
Residents were evacuated from their homes and several roads closed in the surrounding area as a public safety operation was implemented.
Police later confirmed that ammunition technical officers were tasked to the scene and a controlled explosion was carried out on the object, “which has now been declared a hoax”.
“It has since been taken away for further forensic examination,” a spokesperson said.
“We understand the disruption this incident caused, to road users and the public, and I want to thank everyone impacted for their patience and co-operation while the scene was made safe.
“An investigation is underway and I would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 360 of 14/07/24.”
![Alert](https://www.irishnews.com/resizer/v2/V5WTUXIN7JHS7FAOT7U6QQ3CUA.jpeg?auth=506f03a129c90fda42e05cca2fc37fa6b294bcd36db21efa935d692008f19682&width=800&height=559)
All cordons were lifted and residents returned to their homes.
Mr Maskey condemned the disruption.
“This has forced many residents out of their homes on a Sunday morning and has also forced businesses to shut,” he said.
“It’s the last thing anyone wants to see in the middle of the summer, and I would urge those responsible to get off the backs of the community.”
Security alert in west Belfast has ended https://t.co/VOOXnfO3L5 pic.twitter.com/asTkuwna9F
— Police West Belfast (@PSNIBelfastW) July 14, 2024