LONDON — Police in Northern Ireland have ordered the evacuation of more than 400 homes to remove what appears to be a World War II bomb.
The removal operation could take more than five days, police said Sunday.
The device was discovered on Friday in Newtownards, an area of County Down, about 15 kilometres east of Belfast.
“I appreciate the disruption this has caused but keeping people safe is paramount and we will not take any risks,” said North Down and Ards District Superintendent Johnston McDowell. “I would like to thank those who may be affected for their patience at this time.”
Police had set up barricades and asked drivers to avoid the area.
An emergency assistance centre has been set up for residents who have had to leave their homes.
