Security alert underway in West Belfast

A security alert is underway in West Belfast following reports that a "device" was planted in the Old Golf Course Road area.

As a result an event planned for local children has been called off, and surrounding roads have been closed.

Police are currently carrying out searches in the area.

Police investigating report of device left in the vicinity of the Old Golf Course Rd, west Belfast. Search operation ongoing. Old Golf Course Rd & Creightons Rd are closed. Diversions in place. If anyone comes across anything suspicious call 101, quoting reference 838 of 07/12/18

— PSNI (@PoliceServiceNI) 8 December 2018

Chief Inspector Helen Garrett said:

“As a result of this information, we will be conducting a search operation in the area today to establish the location of this item. This will involve the closure of a number of roads in the area including the Old Golf Course Road and Creightons Road. Diversions will be in place and we would ask the public to follow the diversions.  

“I understand these road closures will cause significant disruption in the area, especially in the run-up to Christmas, however, the safety of the community is of paramount importance and we will not take any risks. 

“As we work to keep people safe, I would re-emphasise to the local community and people travelling through the area they should be mindful of their own personal safety. 

“If anyone comes across anything suspicious, they should contact police immediately on 101"

Sinn Féin Councillor Stephen Magennis said today that a bomb alert in the Old Golf Course Road area of West Belfast was causing serious disruption for local people.

Sinn Féin Councillor Stephen Magennis said:

“The road which is the main access for people from the local area to the motorway has been sealed off by police searching for a device following warnings to the PSNI.

“An event due to be held in the area for hundreds of children has already been cancelled and this will impact on Christmas shoppers.

“Those responsible for leaving a device in the area have brought local people nothing but disruption and chaos.

“If anyone has any information about the location of this device then they should bring it forward  immediately to the police.”