Faulty security tag causes department store bomb scare

Merseyside Police says the suspicious object that caused a bomb scare at the John Lewis department store in Liverpool city centre today was not a viable device nor a hoax. It was examined by bomb disposal experts who deemed it safe.

The object in question was a faulty electronic security tag which was emitting a loud and audible ticking sound.

It is believed a member of staff wrapped and taped the tag up to muffle the noise but did not tell colleagues working in the store what they had done or why it was there.

It was then found this morning by a staff member who, concerned by its appearance and sound, reported it to police and evacuated the store.

Officers say staff at John Lewis did the right thing in deciding to evacuate the building.

The store has since reopened.

Merseyside Police says a suspicious object found by an employee at the John Lewis department store in Liverpool this morning has been "confirmed as not having posed a threat."

Officers say the cordon around the store has been lifted and the police operation stood down.

In a statement, Merseyside Police said: "The safety of the public is always our priority and we would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while the emergency services responded to this security alert."

Police say the cordon at John Lewis Liverpool has been lifted. A full statement is expected soon.

Bomb disposal experts have arrived at the John Lewis department store in Liverpool after a suspicious item was found by a member of staff this morning.

The store has been evacuated and the area cordoned off while officers investigate.

Merseyside Police says officers are currently dealing with a suspicious object found in the John Lewis department store in Liverpool city centre this morning.

The item was reported by an employee at 10am.

Police have cordoned off an area around the store and all shoppers and employees have been evacuated as a precaution.