Image caption The alert is close to the Lecky Road flyover in the city's Bogside

Police have been attacked with petrol bombs and fireworks while investigating a security alert in Londonderry.

The alert close to the Lecky Road flyover in the city's Bogside area has been declared a hoax.

A number of residents who were moved from their homes have been allowed to return.

Ch Insp Alan Hutton said he "would strongly condemn the actions of a small group of people who threw missiles".

"This small minority of individuals showed a complete disregard for their area and the community who live there, by attacking police this afternoon.

"Their actions serve no purpose other than to cause harm to our community and lead to criminal convictions for young people.

'Out of touch'

"Thankfully no one was injured and, despite these incidents, police will continue to provide the dedicated service to the local community," he said.

Ch Insp Hutton thanked residents and members of the public "for their continued patience while we worked to keep everyone safe".

Earlier, Sinn Féin Councillor Colly Kelly said the alert began after a suspect device was discovered under the flyover.

"Whoever left this device has only succeeded in causing hardship to the local population," he said.

"It is obvious that those behind leaving such devices are out of touch with the will of the vast majority of the people of the Bogside who want to move forward without this type of disruption."