A probe has been launched by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) into the deaths of two men who were shot during a police/military operation in Bellefield this morning.

The identities of the deceased men are being withheld pending further investigation.

According to reports, at around 6:00 a.m., the police acting on intelligence sought help from military personnel and went in pursuit of three men in the community.

It’s understood that when the security forces arrived at the house, one man ran with a firearm while another man reportedly pulled a firearm at the police who then took evasive action.

Two men were shot in the exchange of gunfire while the third suspect escaped. Both men were taken to hospital where they were pronounced dead.

Subsequent details will follow.