Four arrests during raids linked to loyalist mob probe

By Q Radio News

Police have been carrying out raids in east Belfast, Dundonald and Newtownards linked to a probe into the large gathering of loyalists in Pitt Park last month.

So far today four men have been arrested.

The suspects are 40, 45, 48, and 52-years-old and are being held on suspicion of terrorism and other related offences.

A PSNI spokesperson said: ''Detectives from PSNI’s Criminal Investigation Branch and Paramilitary Crime Task Force, investigating an incident involving a significant gathering in the Pitt Park area of east Belfast on Tuesday, 2 February, have arrested four men this morning.

''A number of searches are ongoing in east Belfast, Dundonald and Newtownards areas.

''The men, aged 40, 45, 48, and 52 years old were arrested on suspicion of terrorism, and other related offences.''

Detective Chief Superintendent John McVea added: “Our investigation into the gathering at Pitt Park and activities linked to east Belfast UVF is continuing, and today’s arrests were conducted under the Terrorism Act. Those arrested will now be questioned in Musgrave Street Serious Crime Suite.

“I would continue to appeal to anyone in the community who has information or footage regarding the incident or criminality in the area, to contact the police.”