A SUSPICIOUS item that was found in an abandoned car two weeks ago is still under investigation.

Police discovered an abandoned silver Audi A6 on Car Bank Street in Atherton, shortly before 11am on Thursday, January 2.

After further inspection, officers found a suspicious item in the car and called for further assistance.

A bomb squad attended and assessed the item.

A police cordon was put in place and a small number of homes were evacuated as a precaution while the scene was assessed.

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The discovered item was taken away for further analysis after it was deemed safe to move.

The nature of the item, which has been investigated by specialist officers, has still not been revealed by police.

Last Tuesday, police confirmed two men - aged 25 and 45 - and a 35-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possession of an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose.

This afternoon, Monday, Greater Manchester Police confirmed they were all released under investigation.