The security operation continues today to locate an explosive device at Southway in Derry
ANGRY residents are spending a second day out of their homes over a security alert in Derry.
Homes were evacuated on Thursday afternoon and traffic was disrupted due to the alert in Southway in the city following reports of a suspicious object.
The police said they were looking for an explosive device.
Army Technical Officers are at the scene.
The police helicopter and a specialist search teams along with sniffer dogs are also at the scene.
A number of cordons remain in place as the major security operation continues.
Derry police chief Supt Mark McEwan said: “Obviously, at this time of year, there is very little light during the daytime and in order to be fully assured that we can clear (the area) completely we needed to wait till this morning.
“The people who planted something like this have no regard for the safety of this community.
“We are looking for an explosive device, something that’s in a very public area.
“One line of enquiry is that dissident republicans may be responsible.”
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Due to an ongoing security alert in the Southway area of Derry, a number of cordons are in place and traffic movement will be affected.
“The alert began after police received a report on Thursday afternoon of a suspicious object.
“A number of residents have been moved from homes overlooking Southway.
“A respite centre has been opened at Long Tower Youth Club for those displaced.”
Sinn Féin Councillor Patricia Logue said families and businesses had been evacuated as a result of the alert.
“The people who create these alerts have nothing to offer the community and should desist immediately from their campaign of disruption,” said Cllr Logue.
The security operation continues today to locate an explosive device at Southway in Derry