Police in west Belfast have arrested a 35-year-old man under the Terrorism Act during a search operation on the Shankill Road. The man remains in custody.

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Terrorism Investigation Unit conducted searches of two properties in the area as part of what they described as a proactive investigation into suspected terrorism offences.

During the operation, officers located a number of items at an address on Edwina Street. A number of homes have been evacuated as a precaution.

Police have advised motorists to avoid the area while officers remain at the scene during the public safety operation.

DUP councillor Ian McLaughlin said the incident was shocking and saddening for the community. He indicated that what began as a low-level search had escalated, describing it as an unwarranted incident in a normally quiet area.

TUV councillor Ron McDowell said police should be given time and space to complete their investigation.