Suspicious object in west Belfast declared a 'hoax' following security alert

A security alert in west Belfast has ended.

It follows the discovery of a suspicious object this morning in the Springfield Road area.

A number of road closures in place are now over and roads have re-opened.

Inspector Adams said: “Police received a report shortly before 8am that a suspicious object had been discovered outside a property in the Springfield Road area of the city.

“A public safety operation was implemented, which involved roads being closed in the surrounding area and a number of homes being evacuated.

“Ammunition Technical Officers were tasked to the scene and a controlled explosion was carried out on the object, which has now been declared a hoax.

“It has since been taken away for further forensic examination.

“All cordons have since been lifted and residents are returning to their homes.

“We understand the disruption this incident caused, to road users and the public, and I want to thank everyone impacted for their patience and co-operation while the scene was made safe.

“An investigation is underway and I would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 360 of 14/07/24."

A report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/