IQALUIT - A bomb threat at the Nova Hotel forced the evacuation of buildings in central Iqaluit this afternoon.

Police and "specialized units" swept the building but found nothing suspicious.

Staff and guests from the hotel had to leave the premises as quickly as possible around 2:30 p.m. Those inside the Igluvut Building next door were also evacuated.

That building is home to several large offices including the headquarters of RCMP's V division, Nunavut Tunngavik, the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, Qikiqtaalik Corporation and the Royal Bank.

The legislative assembly, across the street, was also shut down. Politicians, who were in caucus meetings, and legislature staff scrambled from the building.

Police have blocked off road traffic in front of the Nova, on Federal Road just north of the four-way stop or "four corners."

Nova staff and guests milled outside or sought shelter in office doorways awaiting further word.

The investigation is ongoing.