Police have said they have discovered what is believed to be an improvised grenade following a major search operation at a property in south Belfast.
Yesterday a man was arrested following the discovery of a “suspicious object.”
Photographs from the scene last night showed several Tactical Support Group officers searching a house in the Empire Street area with a number of plain-clothes armed officers at the scene.
In an updated statement on Thursday morning, a PSNI spokesperson said police remain at the scene but evacuated residents have returned to their home.
“The scene has been reduced and evacuated residents have returned home after a suspicious object, believed to be an improvised grenade, was made safe and removed by ATO,” spokesperson said.
“A man in his 50s who was arrested as part of the investigation remains in custody and police enquiries are continuing.”
The South Belfast Area Commander, PSNI Chief Inspector Mark Conway added: “Our investigation is at an early stage however we are aware of inaccurate online speculation regarding this alert and we advise the public not rely on such sources for their information.
“Once again we thank the community for their patience and co-operation while we carried out this public safety operation.
“A further update will be provided in due course.”
Police have been at the scene of since yesterday morning, with residents in the nearby area having been evacuated for most of yesterday. Motorists had also been advised to avoid the area.
Yesterday Mr Conway had 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.”
Read more
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 yesterday, 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.”
Read more
Watch: Never before seen relics revealed in Strand Arts Centre renovations