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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Derry homes evacuated after 'suspicious items' prompt security alert

Homes have been evacuated in Derry after "a number of suspicious items" prompted a security alert.

The PSNI said that residents in the Fahan Street area had to be evacuated shortly after 11am on Monday.

To facilitate the public safety operation, Fahan Street has now been closed at both ends, police say.

Read more: Man dies following house fire in Derry

Inspector Robb said: "We understand the closure of Fahan Street will cause disruption, but this is necessary in order to make the area safe.

"We also recognise the inconvenience for all those who are having to leave their properties, and we thank everyone affected for their co-operation and patience.

"I want to reassure the community that when it comes to public safety we take no chances. We will keep you updated and bring you further information when we are in a position to do so."

Meanwhile, Councillor Brian Tierney said the local community were "sick" of incidents like this occurring.

Councillor Tierney said: “This security alert is causing significant disruption in our city this afternoon and the last thing local residents should have to deal with is being forced from their homes on a Monday morning. Fahan Street has been closed causing difficulties to people who regularly travel through this area.

“I am on the ground engaging with local residents and community representatives to ensure they are supported until this security alert ends. I’m also liaising with police to try and establish a timeline for residents to return to their homes.

“We are sick of incidents like this interrupting the lives of our community and I’d ask anyone with information to come forward to police as soon as possible.”

Read more: West Belfast assault on male by three others sparks PSNI appeal

Read more: Man produces knife and demands money from till at North Belfast shop

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