Man (37) charged after security alert in Belfast

By Jonathan McCambridge, Press Association

A man has been charged with possessing explosives after a security alert in south Belfast earlier on Thursday.

The man, 37, has been charged with possession of explosives under suspicious circumstances, possession of an offensive weapon, possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of class C controlled drugs with intent to supply.

He is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

A 37-year-old woman who was also arrested was released on bail pending further inquiries.

Police said the charges are in relation to the security alert in the Roosevelt Street area of Belfast on Thursday.

A number of homes had to be evacuated as a result.

Chief Inspector Loreen Glenn said: “Shortly before 00.10am, a search was conducted by police following an earlier arrest of a man on suspicion of drugs-related offences.

“Officers attended the property at the Roosevelt Street area and a number of items were discovered and have now been taken away for further forensic examinations.

“A public safety operation was commenced and a number of properties in the Roosevelt Street and Iverna Street areas of south Belfast were evacuated.

“Cordons were put in place and the Sandy Row Community Centre was opened for local residents.”

A number of items have been taken away by specialist officers for further examination.

Police said residents have since been able to return home.

“Our inquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information which might assist us to contact 101, quoting reference number 9 09/07/26,” a spokesperson said.