Mayo suspect device scare confirmed as 'an elaborate hoax'

GARDAÌ in Mayo have confirmed that the scare over a suspect device in Ballina yesterday was 'an elaborate hoax'.

Members of the Army's explosive ordnance disposal team attended the scene in the Mount Assumpta area after a report was made to An Garda Siochana.

A number of residents were evacuated as part of the operation.

The disclosure that the suspect device was not viable and the incident was a hoax has focused the garda investigation in a new direction.

A further gardaì update on the matter is expected to be outlined in due course.