A security alert in Co Tyrone that led to the evacuation of homes and the closure of a Sinn Féin Westminster candidate’s office has ended.
Órfhlaith Begley’s Omagh office at James Street remained shut throughout Monday afternoon while the PSNI investigated a ‘suspicious object’ in the area.
The security alert ended on Monday evening after police confirmed a firearm was located at the rear of a property in the street. It has been taken away for further forensic examination.
PSNI Chief Inspector McCullough said: “A number of homes and businesses in the area were evacuated as officers conducted a public safety operation in the area.
”Residents have now returned to their homes and all roads have re-opened.
”We would like to thank the local community for their understanding and patience as we conducted our investigations.
”Our enquiries are continuing and anyone with any information is asked to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 764 of 24/06/24.”
Ms Begley is due to stand as the incumbent candidate at the upcoming General Election for the West Tyrone constituency, a seat she has held since 2018.
“We have been advised to close our Omagh office due to the discovery of a suspicious object,” Ms Begley said earlier on Monday.
“We hope to be back open tomorrow.”