Police in Northern Ireland have instructed the evacuation of over 400 homes due to the discovery of a suspected World War II-era bomb. The identified device in Newtownards, situated in County Down roughly 9 miles east of Belfast, was found on Friday. To ensure the safety of the public, authorities estimated that the operation to remove the bomb could span over five days. Superintendent Johnston McDowell, the North Down and Ards District Commander, emphasized the significance of prioritizing safety over potential inconveniences caused by the evacuation. He extended gratitude to the affected individuals for their understanding and cooperation during this period.
To manage the situation, police set up barriers and urged motorists to steer clear of the affected area. Additionally, an emergency support center was established to assist residents who were required to vacate their homes due to the evacuation order.