Updated - Malta Public Transport reacts - The police closed roads around the Marsa Park and Ride at about 11.30am today after claims that a foreign bus passenger had shouted at a driver that he was carrying a bomb.

Searches were carried out by the dog section, and bomb explosive experts were also on the scene, but the police later said it appeared there had been a misunderstanding between the passenger and the driver.

Malta Public Transport in a statement said its driver reported to the control room that a passenger had alleged that he was carrying a bomb. The bus was stopped in Marsa, passengers were evacuated and cleared from the vicinity, and the authorities were called in.

All Malta Public Transport staff and passengers were evacuated from the vicinity until police and army officials gave their clearance.

Malta Public Transport is providing all information to the authorities including cctv footage from the bus.

"Malta Public Transport focuses heavily on the safety of its staff and passengers and takes such threats very seriously. The company apologises for any inconvenience caused to passengers by this incident and informs bus users that all services have now resumed as normal."