A major search operation is underway at a property as part of a south Belfast security alert after a man was arrested following the discovery of a “suspicious object.”
Photographs from the scene show several Tactical Support Group officers searching a house in the Empire Street area with a number of plain-clothes armed officers at the scene.
Forensic officers are expected to remain at the scene overnight after a man was arrested earlier this evening.
In a statement the PSNI said that the alert at the Empire Street area remains ongoing.
Police have been at the scene of since this morning, with residents in the nearby area having been evacuated. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area.
The South Belfast Area Commander, Chief Inspector Mark Conway, said: “Following the discovery of a suspicious object in the area, officers have commenced a public safety operation.
“A number of homes have been evacuated and motorists are advised to avoid the area. We thank residents for their understanding as we continue to keep the local community safe.
“One man aged in his 50s has been arrested as part of the investigation and remains in police custody at this time.
“Officers will continue to provide a visible policing presence in the area and an update will be provided in due course.”
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It is understood the security alert is centred around a residential property near the Laganside Auctions building, with the street cordoned off at the junction of Lamberg Street.
Speaking to this newspaper earlier today, a member of staff at the business said: “It is just happening out the back of the building. It seems to be one of the houses out towards the back.
“One of our staff members approached the police officers and they said it was OK for us to remain.
“We have just been working away here.”
Meanwhile police have confirmed Olympia Leisure Centre is open for those who have had to leave their homes.
In an earlier statement, a spokesperson said: “Police are at the scene of a security alert in Empire Street, south Belfast this morning, Wednesday 29th January.
“Cordons are in place and the public are advised to avoid the area at this time.”
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