A security alert in the Workman Avenue area of north Belfast has now ended.

Inspector McCullough said: “Police received a report at around 11.45am on Friday, 3rd April of a suspicious object in the area.

"Officers attended the scene, along with other emergency services colleagues, and a number of residents were advised to evacuate during the public safety operation that followed, with local facilities opened to accommodate this.

“Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) also attended the scene and carried out a controlled explosion on the item, which has been taken away for forensic examination. However, at this stage, we believe this was an elaborate hoax.

“Those who were evacuated are now able return to their homes and all roads have been reopened.

“We appreciate that people were out of their homes for a period of time as this public safety operation was conducted and we would like to thank them for their patience.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information which might assist us to contact 101, quoting reference number 510 of 03/04/26.

“You can also submit a report or information online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.”