A MAN HAS been arrested in Belfast on suspicion of making and possessing explosives under suspicious circumstances.

Yesterday, PSNI officers attended the Bentham Drive area of south Belfast following the discovery of a suspicious object.

Cordons were put in place and a number of nearby properties had to be evacuated.

Residents were able to return to their homes this morning.

Police conducted a search of a house in the area and discovered a number of suspicious objects.

Ammunition Technical Officers attended the scene and examined the objects, which were declared as viable.

They have since been removed for further examination.

The man who was arrested is currently in police custody.

A PSNI spokesperson said police are grateful to residents for their cooperation and patience while the area was made safe.

Enquiries are continuing and the PSNI has appealed to anyone with any information in relation to the incident to contact them.

A report can also be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form or via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.