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An army bomb disposal officer leaves at block of flats at the centre of a security alert in Newtownards. Photo: Alan Lewis
TSG officers are at the scene. Picture: Aodhan Roberts/Belfast Telegraph.
A security alert in Newtownards has now concluded with police declaring a suspicious object as ‘viable’.
Residents who were evacuated from their homes are now allowed to return.
Police conducted a search of residential premises at the Mill Street area shortly after 1:45pm on Friday 30 May.
During the search, officers located a suspicious object and a public safety operation commenced.
An army bomb disposal officer leaves at block of flats at the centre of a security alert in Newtownards. Photo: Alan Lewis
News Catch Up – Friday 30th May
Detective Sergeant Stewart said: “A number of residents of an apartment block in the area were evacuated and Mill Street was closed during the operation. The object, which is believed to be viable, has been taken away for further forensic examinations.
“As part of the search operation, a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of a number of related offences. He is currently in police custody at this time.
“Mill Street has now reopened and residents are now able to their homes. Police would thank the local community for their patience and understanding during this time.
“Enquiries are continuing and police would appeal to anyone with any information, to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 828 30/05/25. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”