'Prominent loyalist' shot dead in north Belfast

A man has been shot dead in north Belfast.

The shooting happened at around 9.50pm on Sunday in Sunningdale Gardens in the unionist Ballysillan area, police said.

It is understood the victim was a prominent loyalist.

Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster condemned the killing.

"Shocked and disgusted to hear of a murder in nth Belfast tonight," she tweeted.

"I urge everyone to work with the police as they investigate."

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness branded the shooting "shameless".

"There can be no justification for the murder of a well known Loyalist in N.Belfast tonight," he tweeted.

"This was shameful & I unreservedly condemn it."

Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire said on Twitter: "Concerned to hear of fatal shooting in N Belfast. No place for violence in communities. Urge anyone with info to contact PSNI."

Ulster Unionist member of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, Ross Hussey, said: "I am very saddened to hear of a fatal shooting in north Belfast.

"Murder is murder and cannot be justified. It must be condemned.

"I would urge anyone with information to contact the police so that those responsible can be brought to justice."

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