The alert began this morning when the device was found in a car at Ballycolman Lane in the town.
It was then carried to Bradley Way by a member of the public.
It is understood a number of businesses were evacuated, including a children's nursery and a local bus depot.
Chief Inspector Andy Lemon, the area commander, described the actions of those who caused the alert as 'totally irresponsible'.
'Yet again elements felt the need to attack a member of the community,' he said.
'The device was lifted out by a member of the public and taken to waste ground. While those actions undoubtedly prevented a great deal more inconvenience than did take place, they are not something we normally recommend,' he added.
Separately, the Crumlin Road in north Belfast has reopened following a security alert.
Police examined an object which was found to be 'not suspicious'.
