Ms Long, who was in the area during the alert, said: “The police are currently dealing with a suspected nail bomb device which has been left in the Mount area of East Belfast. Clearly, whoever is behind planting this device is utterly reckless, placing at risk the lives of local residents and any passers-by.
“Over recent days there has been an escalation in violence at the interface and this evening, in addition to dealing with the bomb device, the PSNI and Fire Service are also having to deal with a number of other incidents in the Templemore Avenue and Mount areas.
“Local residents deserve to be left in peace without this constant threat and disruption to their lives. Even as the bomb incident is ongoing tonight, youths are continuing to gather in the area. I would appeal to parents to ensure that their children are not amongst them – they are placing themselves at risk of injury or arrest and are making life a misery for people living in the area.
“I would also appeal to anyone with information about the device to come forward and help the police with their inquiries.”
ENDS