Pipe bomb found in Whitewell Road, north Belfast, alert

Army bomb experts have defused a pipe bomb found on the Whitewell Road in north Belfast on Wednesday.

A number of people were moved from their homes before the Army made safe what they described as a "viable device".

Police are investigating if the pipe bomb had been thrown at a patrol.

Meanwhile, nothing was found in a separate alert on the Shore Road in Newtownabbey. However, police are warning the public to remain vigilant.

A spokesman said: "A thorough search was carried out overnight following information that suggested there may be something suspicious in the area.

"While nothing untoward was found, we would ask that should someone come across a suspicious object they do not touch it and contact police straight away. We would also appeal to anyone who sees anyone acting suspiciously in the area to contact police."