The security alert at Foyleside shopping centre in Londonderry has ended and has been declared a hoax.
Earlier police received a report that a ‘bomb’ had been left in the centre.
Chief Inspector Clive Beatty said the alert has resulted in unnecessary fear and disruption to the community.
“I would like to thank the public and business community for their co-operation and patience as we worked quickly to ensure the centre was safe to reopen. At a time when local businesses and services are trying desperately to get back on track, this type of incident only causes further harm to livelihoods.
“I would encourage anyone with information about this hoax to come forward and speak with our detectives,” he added.