Residents evacuated during an overnight security alert in south Belfast returned to their homes on Thursday morning, after police lifted cordons around Roosevelt Street and Iverna Street.

The operation began in the early hours of July 9 when officers searched a property in the Roosevelt Street area, close to Donegall Road. Multiple items were recovered and have been removed for specialist examination.

Two people – a man and a woman, both aged 37 – were arrested and remain in police custody. The Police Service of Northern Ireland said specialist officers continue to search the property.

During the alert, residents from Iverna Street and Roosevelt Street were moved from their homes. The Sandy Row Community Centre was opened to accommodate those displaced. Ammunition Technical Officers were initially at the scene alongside police, but cordons were later lifted and people allowed back.

South Belfast Local Policing Inspector Stallard said police appreciated the patience and cooperation of residents during the disruption caused by the public safety operation. He appealed for anyone with information to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 9 09/07/26, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The investigation is ongoing and police maintain a presence in the area.