A security alert in the Ashford Lodge area of Newtownabbey has now ended after being declared a hoax.

Inspector Cullen said: “Police received a report on Thursday, 5th September shortly after 11.15pm that a suspicious device had been left in the area.

“A number of homes were evacuated as officers conducted a public safety operation in the area.

“Ammunition Technical Officers attended and carried out a controlled explosion on the device – which was later confirmed a hoax and non-viable.

“Residents have now returned to their homes and temporary cordons lifted from the area.

“Our primary aim throughout the course of this operation was to keep our community safe and I would like to thank residents for their patience and understanding during this time.

“Our enquiries are continuing and anyone with any information is asked to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1821 05/09/24.”

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