Bomb squad detectives evacuated businesses and closed streets in Melbourne’s CBD after s “suspicious package” was discovered on Thursday evening.

Russell Street was blocked off between Lonsdale and La Trobe streets, causing traffic delays after the package was reportedly found on the street near QV building.

The Nine Network showed footage of a bomb disposal unit checking the suspicious package before the all-clear was given several hours later.

A bomb disposal robot was used to carry out the operation.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the cordon was lifted at 12.45am after the package deemed safe.

Police earlier confirmed buildings in the immediate area of the package were cleared while the police operation was underway.

“A number of businesses have been evacuated as a precaution,” the spokesperson said.

A VicTraffic alert said motorists were being diverted from the area and warned commuters to avoid the area.

Bomb squad detectives close part of Russell Street after suspicious package found. @9NewsMelb pic.twitter.com/ITQY39M3Ty

— Sean Davidson (@SeanDavidson_) February 15, 2018

Victoria Police bomb squad robot is being used to examine suspicious package in Russell Street @abcmelbourne pic.twitter.com/MR7MMVMX9t

— Yvette Gray (@yvettegraynews) February 15, 2018