Cookstown security alert 'elaborate hoax'

A suspicious object that sparked a security alert in Cookstown on Saturday has been declared a hoax.

Homes and businesses were evacuated while it was examined on the Burn Road.

The area was closed between William Street and Park Avenue for most of the afternoon but has now reopened.

Detective Constable Ford said: "I would appeal to anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area of Burn Road to contact detectives at Cookstown PSNI Station on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 493 23/02/19.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."