Ballynure: Device at centre of security alert in rural Newtownabbey may have been left as a result of 'mistaken identity'
Police say they believe a ‘viable device’ at the centre of a security alert in a rural area of Newtownabbey at the weekend was left as a result of mistaken identity.
Detectives investigating the incident on the outskirts of Ballyclare on Sunday, December 14 have made a renewed appeal for information.
Police received a report of a suspicious object located outside a property at Ballylagan Road near Ballynure shortly after 9am.
It was later declared to be a ‘viable device’ and taken away for forensic examination.
Members of the public were asked to avoid the area and a stretch of Ballylagan Road was closed while police and Ammunition Technical Officers (ATO) attended the scene.
A number of local homes were evacuated during the incident.
Police confirmed early on Sunday evening that the security alert had ended.
Detective Inspector Hanbidg said: "Our officers attended the scene together with ATO who examined the device, which has been deemed viable.
"The device, which has been made safe, will now undergo further forensic examination after being removed from the scene.
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On Monday evening, police issued a fresh appeal for information.
Detective Inspector Kelly Gallagher said: “We believe this deliberate act is a case of mistaken identity and we would like to hear from anyone with information that could help our investigation. Please contact us on 101, quoting reference number 455 14/12/25.”
A report or information can also be submitted to police online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
Alternatively, members of the public can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/