David Young (PA)
A security alert was triggered after a suspicious device was thrown at a home in Holywood causing a small fire.
The incident happened in the Firmount Crescent area of the Co Down town shortly after midnight on Wednesday.
There were no reports of any injuries.
A PSNI statement said: “We received a report at around 12.10am that a potential suspicious device was thrown at a house in the area, causing a small fire. Officers attended alongside colleagues from the NIFRS who extinguished the fire.
“Thankfully, there were no reports of any injuries or damage caused at this time.
“Three people were seen leaving the area on foot in the direction of Holywood along Old Holywood Road.”
Officers remained at the scene on Wednesday morning and the public was asked to avoid the area amid road closures.
The PSNI statement added: “An investigation is under way and anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or with any information which could assist with the investigation is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 21 of 27/12/23.”