DETECTIVES from PSNI’s Criminal Investigation Branch and Paramilitary Crime Task Force have arrested four men today over a UVF show of strength in the Pitt Park area of east Belfast on February 2.

A number of searches are ongoing in east Belfast and Newtownards.

The men, aged 33, 35, 46 and 54 years old, were arrested on suspicion of terrorism, and other related offences.

Detective Chief Superintendent John McVea said: “Our investigation into the gathering at Pitt Park and activities linked to east Belfast UVF is continuing.

“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.”

Last Friday, Stephen ‘Mackers’ Matthews, his son David Matthews and Derek Lammey were remanded in custody charged with affray and unlawful assembly.

They will appear back in court on Thursday, March 19, via videolink from Maghaberry prison.