Suspicious device recovered after North Belfast security alert

By Adam Evans

Police and the bomb squad have recovered a suspicious device found in North Belfast.

It was discovered while workmen were clearing drains in the Antrim Road area earlier.

A number of homes were evacuated and roads shut during the security alert which as now ended.

The item will now be examined to determine whether it was viable.

Local Sinn Fein Councillor JJ Magee says "Those responsible have shown complete disregard for this community".

He's told Q Radio there's "no excuse" for this kind of intimidation as this incident continues so close to St Patrick's Primary School.

Detective Inspector Paul Rowland said: "The device, which was discovered by workmen as they were clearing drains in the area, has now been taken away for further examination to determine if it was viable.

"We are unsure at present as to how or when it came to be left in the drain and would ask anyone who has any information which could assist us with our enquiries to contact officers at Antrim Road on 101 quoting reference number 579 06/11/17 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."