Homes have been evacuated in Northern Ireland after an explosion near a police station triggered a major security alert in the outskirts of Belfast.
The incident occurred late on Saturday in the Kingsway area of Dunmurry, prompting a large-scale emergency response and a police cordon around the site. Residents in nearby streets were moved out of their homes as a precaution while officers secured the area.
Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed they were called to the scene following reports of an explosion near the police station. The public has been urged to avoid the area while investigations continue.
Authorities believe the blast was linked to a vehicle, with reports suggesting a car bomb detonated close to the station. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, condemned those responsible, saying they “have no vision, no support, and nothing to offer society”. She stressed that local communities deserve peace and will not be dragged back into violence, adding that progress towards a better future must continue.
Sorcha Eastwood also described the incident as deeply disturbing, noting that it came just weeks after a similar attack elsewhere in the region. She thanked emergency services for their swift response and said the overwhelming majority of people across Northern Ireland reject such violence.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson called for those responsible to be identified and brought before the courts, stressing the need to establish the full facts quickly.
West Belfast MP Paul Maskey said those behind the attack “represent no one” and are opposed by the vast majority of the public, who want stability and peace. He urged communities to remain focused on moving forward.
Security remains tight in the area as forensic teams continue their work. Police have not yet confirmed the exact nature of the device used, but investigations are ongoing.
The explosion has raised renewed concerns about security in Northern Ireland, though officials and community leaders have emphasised that public support for peace remains strong and unchanged.