Bomb squad explodes suspicious package in Townsville

Locals fled and the bomb squad was called in after a suspicious package was found inside a Townsville garbage bin.

Last night police destroyed what was believed to be a lethal device after a garbage collector discovered it in a wheelie bin at a sports centre.

Hundreds of surrounding residents were forced from their homes and a local school was sent into lockdown, many spending the night at a temporary shelter.

The police operation continued past midnight, with the mysterious package detonated after officers were satisfied it posed a potential threat.

The event was one of the largest police operations Townsville has ever seen.

Police are continuing their investigation.