Investigation ongoing after reports of two suspicious devices left in north Belfast - one at a primary school

Inspector Uel Boyd said: “The reports were made to police at around 12:45pm.

“The first report was that a device had been left in the vicinity of a school on Ardoyne Road, while the second report was about a device being left in the vicinity of premises on the Antrim Road.

“Police conducted searches of the Antrim Road area however, no device was located.

"No roads were closed and no homes or businesses were evacuated.

“Police are currently in attendance at a security alert in the Ardoyne Road area were searches are ongoing.

“No roads have been closed at this time, and no residents have been evacuated.

“We would appeal to anyone who has information about either of these incidents to call us on 101, and quote reference numbers 817 or 831 of 12/02/20, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“We will aim to keep any disruption to a minimum, but our priority is keeping people safe and we will not take any chances."

He added: "We will bring you more details as soon as possible and I would urge the public to be vigilant. To the local community, and to people travelling through the area, if you come across anything suspicious, or that looks out of the ordinary, do not touch it and please contact us immediately on 101.”

SDLP Deputy Leader, Nichola Mallon MLA has said those behind the security alerts today in North Belfast have nothing to offer and need to get off the backs of the people of North Belfast.

Responding to two security alerts, one at Holy Cross Girls’ School and the other at Gerry Kelly MLA’s constituency office, the North Belfast MLA said: “The people targeted in these alerts are simply trying to do their job, be it educating children or serving the local community. Reckless attacks like these offer nothing but disruption and anxiety.”

“Those responsible for orchestrating this have nothing to offer the people of North Belfast and they must get off the backs of the local community. I am confident the people of North Belfast will stand together to face down these thugs.”

“No elected representative should be subject to attack. My thoughts are with Gerry Kelly MLA and his staff and I would encourage anyone with any information about these security alerts to contact the police”.