THE police say the security operation in Derry has now ended after almost 24 hours of searching.
The PSNI say that despite an extensive search of the area “nothing untoward has been found”.
Earlier a number of residents were allowed to return to their homes in Derry as the security alert in the Southway area continued.
Cops have been hunting for what they described as an “explosive device” and receiving information that dissident republicans had left a bomb in the area.
This afternoon, following the completion of the searches, police re-opened all roads in the Southway area after completing an extensive search of the area.
Derry police chief Supt Mark McEwan said that, given the information received, police had not option but to carry out a search operation and cordon off the area.
“We regret the inconvenience and disruption caused to local residents,”said Supt McEwan.
“Every effort was made to minimise this disruption, including minimising the number of people who had to be evacuated, and facilitating people with access where possible.
“We have a responsibility to keep people safe and we will not take any chances, especially when the consequens are so serious.
“I am extremely thankful to local people for their support and co-operation throughout his operation,” he added.
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.
Army Technical Officers had been at the scene all day today carrying out searches.
The police helicopter and specialist search teams along with sniffer dogs were also used in the operation.
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.
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