Residents return home following Belfast policing operation
The operation began following the search of a property in the south of the city.
A policing operation which led to a number of homes in south Belfast being evacuated has ended.
PSNI officers began the search of a property in the Roosevelt Street area on Thursday.
Chief Inspector Loreen Glenn said: “Shortly before 00.10am, a search was conducted by police following an earlier arrest of a man on suspicion of drugs related offences.
“Officers attended the property at the Roosevelt Street area and a number of items were discovered and have now been taken away for further forensic examinations.
“A public safety operation was commenced and a number of properties in the Roosevelt Street and Iverna Street areas of south Belfast were evacuated.
“Cordons were put in place and the Sandy Row Community Centre was opened for local residents.”
A number of items have been taken away by specialist officers for further examination.
Police said residents have since been able to return home.
The officer said: “A 37-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman, who was arrested following the search operation, remain in police custody at this time.
“Our inquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information which might assist us to contact 101, quoting reference number 9 09/07/26.”