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Residents have been allowed back into their homes following a security alert that caused chaos in the lower Windsor area of South Belfast last night.

The alert has now ended and been declared a hoax.

It caused chaos for residents of the area who were taken to Olympia Leisure Centre late last night whie Army Technical Officers examined a suspicious device.

Streets around Great Northern Street and Northbrook Street were cordoned off by the PSNI for several hours.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Simon Walls has urged anyone with information on the incident to come forward to police.

He said: "A device left in the Lower Windsor area was examined by Army Technical Officers and declared a hoax. Roads that were closed have since reopened.

"I want to thank residents for their patience while we worked to keep the community safe."

"I would urge anyone who might have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area, or anyone with information which could assist with our enquiries to call us on 101, quoting reference 1213 of 18/08/18."

Alternatively members of the public can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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