Advertisement

Controlled Explosion After Device Found

Controlled Explosion After Device Found

A controlled explosion has been carried out on a device found under a serving soldier's car in Northern Ireland.

A security alert was triggered after the female soldier found the suspicious device under her vehicle on Corbracky Road in Portadown, County Armagh.

A number of homes were evacuated during the ensuing police operation.

The device, which was attached to the car under the driver's seat, was dismantled by a remote-controlled bomb disposal robot.

Police have since confirmed it was not an explosive and residents have been granted permission to return home.

PSNI superintendent Simon Walls said: "While police are keeping an open mind the item is not believed to be suspicious.

"Although this incident caused disruption to local residents, my colleagues and I are committed to keeping people safe and this operation proves that this is our upmost priority."

The alert came as Northern Ireland's politicians continue crisis negotiations at Stormont.

They are understood to have reached an agreement on welfare reform and the devolved government's budget.

The talks are now focused on three outstanding issues - flags, parades and the legacy of The Troubles.