Derry security alert declared a hoax

A security alert in a Northern Ireland housing estate has been declared a hoax.

A security alert in a Northern Ireland housing estate has been declared a hoax.

British army bomb experts examined a van in the Gobnascale area of Derry after police received reports of masked men firing shots.

The scene was sealed off and ammunition technical officers called after reports that a number of masked men had been seen near Campion Court.

Police also had an unconfirmed report of shots being fired.

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A PSNI spokeswoman said investigations were continuing and urged members of the public to avoid the area.

“Police are appealing to anyone who has information in contact them,” she added.

Around 10 homes were evacuated during the alert.

Meanwhile, another security alert was under way in Co Down after the discovery of a suspicious object.

A number of homes in Fearon Close, Kilkeel were evacuated as army bomb specialists were called in to examine the device.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area.