Gun found during Omagh security alert

A firearm has been recovered during a security alert in Omagh.

A gun was located at the rear of a property in the James Street area of the town at around 12.50pm on Monday.

Police and Army bomb disposal officers attended the scene.

The weapon was later taken away for further forensic examination.

A PSNI statement said: "A number of homes and businesses in the area were evacuated as officers conducted a public safety operation in the area.

"Residents have now returned to their homes and all roads have reopened.

"We would like to thank the local community for their understanding and patience as we conducted our investigations."

Officers have appealed for information.

One of the properties forced to close during the alert was the office of Sinn Fein representative Orfhlaith Begley.