A 24-hour security alert was sparked after a child picked up components of an explosion device in Newry, police have revealed.
A number of homes were evacuated in the Violet Hill area of Newry last night as a result.
Army Technical Officers attended the scene and carried out a controlled explosion on what is believed, at this stage, to be component parts for an explosive device.
A number of items have been taken away for forensic examination.
Superintendent Jane Humphries said: “We believe these to be component parts of an explosive device.
“When such items are left in a public area they can be innocently handled by anyone and on this occasion it was picked up by a child.
“I want to thank the public for their patience as we conducted our enquiries and worked to make the scene safe.
“I appreciate the disruption this has caused, however, when it comes to keeping people safe we do not take chances, I can only reinforce to everyone that if you see anything suspicious please do not lift it or approach it.
“Also if anyone saw anything suspicious in relation to this latest incident please get the information to us”.
“If you have information which may assist our investigation, please call us on 101, quoting reference 1108 24/11/19.”
“Alternatively, information can also be provided by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
