A pipe bomb has been found in a Newtownabbey security alert.

The viable device has been recovered from the scene and taken away for forensic examination.

Residents evacuated during the alert in the Arthur Avenue area have been allowed to return home.

PSNI inspector Arnie O’Neill urged witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

“A viable pipe bomb type device has been recovered and taken away for further examination,” he said.

Councillor Michael Goodman condemned those responsible.

“This attack was wrong and must be utterly condemned,” said the Sinn Fein representative.

“It has brought nothing but disruption to the local community, with residents being evacuated from their homes.

“Those responsible have nothing to offer the community.

“Anyone with information on this attack should bring it forward to the PSNI.”