Suspicious object in Castlederg declared a hoax

By Q Radio News

A security alert in Castlederg in County Tyrone has ended and a suspicious object found has been declared a hoax. 

It was sparked after a gang of men forced entry to a house in the Millbrook Gardens area at around 7.30pm yesterday evening. 

The intruders held a man, who was inside the property, to the ground before leaving an object with the appearance of a pipe bomb and making off. 

Police and ATO attended the scene and nearby neighbours were evacuated. 

The item was examined and later declared a hoax. 

It has been taken away for further examination. 

(Last night cordons were put in place at Millbrook Gardens and a number of residents were evacuated)

Police are currently at the scene of a security alert following the report of a suspicious object in the Millbrook Gardens area of Castlederg.
Cordons are in place at Millbrook Gardens and a number of properties have been evacuated.
There are no further details at this time.

— Police Derry City and Strabane (@PSNIDCSDistrict) July 7, 2020

Meanwhile, local councillor Steven Edwards says the incident caused "disruption" and "worry" for local residents. 

"A number of residents have contacted me to raise concern, they are very alarmed.

"No-one wants to be put out of their home at this time during covid with strict regulations there, especially for those who are shielding."