PSNI investigating image of masked men at Belfast crematorium

Police are investigating an image appearing to show masked men at Belfast's Roselawn crematorium during the funeral of a former loyalist paramilitary.

Men in paramilitary-style uniforms were reportedly seen at the funeral of former Ulster Defence Association (UDA) man Andrew Best.

The funeral took place on 23 April.

Belfast City Council, which operates the crematorium, has also begun an investigation.

The story was first reported by the Belfast Telegraph. , external

One image appears to show three masked men wearing berets and dark glasses beside a coffin.

Other pictures circulated online appear to show a floral tribute with the UDA emblem.

A PSNI spokeswoman said: "We are aware of media commentary and images depicting what appear to be masked men at a funeral, which is believed to have taken place in Belfast on 23 April.

"An investigation into the images will now take place."

A statement issued by Belfast City Council said councillors "from across political parties" condemned the reported events at a committee meeting on Friday.

Alliance Party councillor Michael Long described the images as "shocking".

"This is a place where families and loved ones come together to grieve and pay tribute to those who have passed away," he said.

"In 2024, we should not be seeing paramilitaries on our streets, never mind at Roselawn or other similar locations.

"It is clear an urgent investigation is needed by Belfast City Council, both to find how this was allowed to happen and also why it was not reported at the time."

Sinn Féin councillor Ronan McLaughlin also said he was "shocked at this display".

"I have contacted council officials and called on them to ask the police to immediately investigate this incident," he said.

"Anyone with any information should bring it forward to the police."

A council spokeswoman said: "Belfast City Council is undertaking an investigation into the circumstances around a cremation service at Roselawn Crematorium on Tuesday 23 April and are liaising with the PSNI.

"A report will be brought back to elected members in due course. It would be inappropriate to comment further while this investigation is ongoing."