Two arrested following security alert as residents return home

Police have made two arrests following a security alert in east Belfast.

Officers were called to Victor Place at about 11:10 BST after a report of an earlier altercation and possible weapons at a property, which were later discovered to be imitations.

A 42-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman were arrested at the scene.

A number of people were evacuated from their homes but returned just before 19:00 BST.

The man was arrested on suspicion of possession of firearms in suspicious circumstances and common assault while the woman was arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Both remain in custody at this time.

Local policing Inspector Green said that after the arrests officers searched the property, finding two potential firearms and two potential explosive devices.

Because of this a number of homes evacuated and cordons put in place to allow a more thorough examination of the items to be carried out.

Ammunition Technical Officers attended the scene, working alongside police officers.

All items were found to be imitation.

The police said they understood the disruption caused and thanked the local community for their patience.