Lisburn security alert is declared hoax

Residents were evacuated from their homes in the Magheralave Park South area of the city, close to Thiepval Barracks after a suspicious object was discovered at approximately 11pm.

However, the alert was later declared to be a hoax and residents were allowed to return to their homes at 2am.

Many of the residents were accommodated by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council in Lagan Valley Island during the incident.

The Mayor, Councillor Thomas Beckett, said: “The Council opened its Civic Headquarters at Lagan Valley Island to evacuated residents shortly after 11pm last Thursday. Centre Management staff on duty provided refreshments to the 50 residents including children that arrived at Lagan Valley Island. The Trust’s CERT Response Team was called by the Council’s Emergency Planning Officer to assist looking after the residents.

“Most residents went to the homes of family and friends but the Council was pleased that it could assist those who needed shelter for the few hours of the security alert. The Army dealt with the suspect device and the alert was cancelled at 01.45 am, allowing the residents to return to their homes.

“The news that the suspect device was a hoax was greatly received by all parties and I would like to thank all parties who assisted in the situation from the PSNI to the Army and to Council Officers and Trust representatives

Lisburn Councillor Alexander Redpath has condemned those behind the incident. “I want to wholeheartedly condemn this attack and the individuals behind it,” said Councillor Redpath. “It is totally unacceptable for families to be roused from their beds in fear of a terrorist attack.”

Anyone with information about the incident, can contact the police in Lisburn on the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, information can be passed to the police anonymously via the Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111.