Alliance Councillor Michael Long has condemned those behind a security alert in East Belfast which has seen a number of residents evacuated from their homes.

The suspicious object was discovered outside a home in Orby Drive. People have been moved to the nearby Cregagh Community Centre while police and others dealt with the situation.

“Those behind these sorts of devices represent nobody in the community and just causes disruption for locals,” said Councillor Long.

“I utterly condemn them, as they clearly have no regard for anyone else. I am thankful the local residents are all safe.

“My thanks go to the police and other authorities who have dealt with this situation. If anyone has any information on the incident, I urge them to contact the PSNI with it immediately.”