Residents evacuated after 'suspicious items' found in Port Erin property

Armed police officers also seen in Port St Mary estate

UPDATE - 2AM: Police have issued the following statement: 'The Isle of Man Constabulary and specialists from the United Kingdom have attended an address on Pairk Beg, Port Erin and a further address in Port St Mary following concerns and have assessed the threat posed.

'We are pleased to report there is no longer an existing threat to the residents in the vicinity and it is safe for those affected to return home. We would like to thank those concerned for their understanding and patience.

'Further to this, we would advise the public not to speculate in regards to this matter.'

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A number of residents in Port Erin have been evacuated from their homes after 'suspicious items' were found in a property in Pairk Beg.

Police put a cordon in place at around 4pm today (Sunday, 8 September).

After specialists attended the scene a decision was made to evacuate the residential properties within a 100 meter radius of the scene.

Members of the public have also taken to social media to post photographs and videos of armed police officers in the Creggan Lea estate in Port St Mary.

In one video, seen by Manx Radio, a man is walking towards armed officers with his hands on his head whilst they are pointing weapons at him. 

Other photographs show a number of individuals lying on the ground.

The Isle of Man Constabulary says: "We would like to reassure the public that the appropriate procedures for incidents of this nature are being followed and the safety the general public remains our priority.

"A rest centre has been established at the Methodist church building, on Station Road in Port Erin, and if anyone has been displaced to report there for further support.

"As this is a developing incident no further information will be released at this stage, and updates provided when we are able to do so."

The Isle of Man Government says there 'is no immediate risk to the public' and those affected have been 'thanked for their cooperation and understanding'.  

This evening Rushen MHK Michelle Haywood has taken to social media to claim the 'bomb squad' is on its way to the Island.