Residents have been evacuated amid an ongoing security alert in Co Tyrone.
Residents were told to leave their properties in the Gardenville Avenue area of Omagh at around 10am on Monday.
Cordons are in place around the estate, close to the junction of the Gortin Road and Killybrack Road.
Sinn Féin MP for West Tyrone Órfhlaith Begley said her immediate concern was for evacuated residents, particularly families and older people, and said she understood a suspected device was being dealt with.
She said: “My immediate concern is for those residents who have been asked to leave their properties, particularly families, older people and anyone who may require additional support during what is understandably a worrying situation.
“I have been in contact with the relevant authorities and understand that they are currently dealing with the suspected device and that cordons remain in place.
“Residents who have been asked to leave their homes there has been shelter in the local community centre. I will continue to monitor the situation but any issues send me a message.”
West Tyrone DUP MLA Tom Buchanan said investigations were continuing into what he said police had described as a hazardous material, and that those forced out were expected to be allowed home shortly.
He said: “This incident caused significant disruption to people living in Gardenville Avenue. Investigations are still continuing into what police have described as a hazardous material. That work obviously needs to continue but they are hoping that those affected by the alert will be able to return to their homes soon.
“The full facts will need to be established but anything which can pose a risk to safety is of significant concern, particularly in a very quiet residential area such as this.”
Click Here For The Original Source

