A number of homes have been evacuated as emergency services are at the scene of a security alert in Co Londonderry this afternoon.

Police confirmed an operation is underway following the discovery of a suspicious object in the Ranaghan Road area of Maghera.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Road closures are in place at the junctions with Ballyknock Road and Tirkane Road. A number of properties are being evacuated.

“Members of the public are advised to avoid the area at this time.

“Further updates will be issued in due course.”