Security alerts in Derry and Banbridge have both ended and declared as an elaborate hoax.
In Derry, an object was reported in the Skeoge Link Road area of the city shortly before 1pm on Thursday.
Several roads in the area were closed as examinations were carried out on the object.
A PSNI spokesperson said the object was declared an elaborate hoax, and has been taken away for further forensic examination, while all roads in the area have reopened.
“An investigation is underway and officers would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact police at Strand Road on 101, quoting reference number 658 22/08/24,” the spokesperson added.
Shortly after 8pm on Thursday evening, police also confirmed the alert in Banbridge had ended.
Shortly after 1.45pm, it had been reported that a suspicious objected had been found in the Oak Lodge area of the town.
A number of homes had to be evacuated as officers attended and examinations were carried out on the object, which was then declared an elaborate hoax.
The object has been taken away for further forensic examination and a number of residents who were evacuated from their homes have been permitted to return.
An investigation is underway and officers would appeal to anyone with any information in relations to this incident to contact police on 101, quoting reference 741 for August 22.
A security alert in Banbridge has now ended. pic.twitter.com/k3cz1q9nzd
— Police Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon (@PSNIABC) August 22, 2024
Police erected cordons and urged the public to avoid the area.
Banbridge Leisure Centre at Downshire Place had opened for residents forced to leave their homes as the alert continued.
Banbridge DUP councillor Paul Greenfield had called it “a huge disruption” for residents in the area, and hoped residents were allowed to return to their homes soon.
“This is definitely not welcome in Banbridge, and I would urge anyone with relevant information on this to contact police.”
