WATCH: PSNI ACC warns of 'paramilitary element' involvement in Belfast anti-immigration disorder

The PSNI warned today (Tuesday) that of a paramilitary group involvement in the current anti-immigration disorder on the streets of Belfast.

Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said she "has no doubt there is a paramilitary element", describing scenes on Monday of younger adults appearing to be directed by older people.

Speaking at a media conference at PSNI headquarters in east Belfast, Ms Jones said: "We have an open mind as to who is orchestrating and organising this.

"What we saw last night, we feel was different from what we saw on Saturday. On Saturday, we saw mainly older adult people who became involved in disorder.

"Last night it was clear to us that there was a younger element, teenagers mainly, who were involved in the disorder, but that there was an element of organisation and orchestration from what appeared to be older adults present at the scene.

"I have no doubt there is a paramilitary element to this, but I am not in a position to say that this is the main organiser or orchestrator of these events. However, we do keep an open mind to this and this will be part of our investigative strategy."