Ballymoney security alert declared "elaborate hoax"

by Q Radio News

A security alert in the Raceview Drive area pf Ballymoney has been declared an elaborate hoax. 

It was sparked earlier following the discovery of a suspicious object. 

ATO examined the object and carried out a number of controlled explosions. 

Around 50 houses were evacuated earlier during the alert and they have since been allowed to return to their homes. 

A number of homes have been evacuated in the Raceview Drive area of Ballymoney due to a security alert. Police and ATO are on scene. @KMcAuleyPhoto pic.twitter.com/mOyuNLxCj2

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) September 13, 2019

Chief Inspector Ian Magee said: “In order to ensure the safety of local residents, people from around 50 houses were evacuated earlier. 

"They are now returning to their homes.

“Local people, including children trying to make their way home from school, have been greatly inconvenienced. And I’d like to thank all of those people for their patience and cooperation.

“I’m also appealing to anyone with information about this incident, to get in touch on 101, quoting reference number 365 of 13/09/19.

“Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

(PSNI officers at the scene of the security alert in Ballymoney)

Meanwhile, the hoax has been condemned by public representatives in the area. 

North Antrim MLA Phillip McGuigan says, “The discovery of a suspicious object in the Raceview area of Ballymoney has caused considerable disruption.

“People have had to be evacuated from their homes as a result of this security alert. 

“No one in the community wants this type of incident and those responsible have nothing to offer society and should end these futile actions immediately.”

Councillor Darryl Wilson says, "Can I thank the PSNI and the ATO for their swift and professional response today.

"It is my hope that this turns out to be an isolated incident and that no further disruption is caused to the local community."