North Belfast security alert: People moved from their homes

BBC
·1 min read

A number of people have been moved from their homes due to a security alert in north Belfast.

Police are at the scene of the alert in Balholm Drive and Brompton Park in the Ardoyne area.

It is understood about 20 homes were evacuated on Monday morning.

Army technical officers are working close to The Crumlin Star bar on Balholm Drive, where it is understood they are investigating a suspicious object.

Police car and cordon at security alert
Police are at the scene of the security alert [BBC]

The alert has caused disruption to the community.

Young families and pensioners received a knock on the door at about 06:00 BST telling them to leave their homes and they scrambled to go to neighbours and friends.

Postal services have been affected and some businesses are unable to open.

Sinn Féin assembly member for north Belfast Gerry Kelly said the Ardoyne Community Centre had been opened for residents.

"I would urge people to avoid the area while this alert continues," he added.