A security alert in Lisburn which led to the evacuation of homes has turned out to be an elaborate hoax.
The security alert began at Glenmore Park this morning.
Superintendent Mullan said police received a report of a suspicious object located in the area shortly before 6:40am.
Officers and army technical officers attended and the object was taken away for further forensic examinations.
A number of residents who were evacuated from their homes have been allowed to return.
“We would like to thank those who were directly impacted, as police carried out a public safety operation in the area.
“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and we would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, to contact 101 quoting reference number 203 17/12/20. You can call 101, or you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ . The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/,” said Superintendent Mullan.