06/08/2024

'Nothing Untoward' Found During East Belfast Security Alert

A large-scale security alert in east Belfast ended with "nothing untoward" being found.

The security alert began just before 10.25am on Monday, 05 August, when police were informed by an unnamed elected representative that they had been told a number of devices had been left in the vicinity of playing fields in the Church Road area of the city. The playing fields are the site of the East Belfast GAA team.

Police launched a large-scale security operation, closing two roads and a number of local premises, including a nursery and a school which was hosting a summer scheme.

Following a thorough search of the playing fields and surrounding areas, no devices were located.

Inspector McCrum said: "We would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation as searches were carried out.

"We appreciate this has caused considerable inconvenience, particularly to the children and their parents, but public safety is our priority.

"Our enquiries into the origin of the claim remain ongoing. Anyone with information which could assist with our investigation is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 456 of 05/08/24."

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

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