Protesters at a military veterans' rally at City Hall, Belfast, organised by Justice for Northern Ireland Veterans (JFNIV) which is seeking to highlight what it alleges is a legal witch hunt against former security members who served during the Troubles. Source: PA Wire/PA Images

FORMER BRITISH SOLDIERS are holding a rally in Belfast today against the decision to prosecute some retired security officers in relation to killings in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

A counter-demonstration by republicans has also been organised in the city.

The protest organised by Justice for Northern Ireland Veterans (JFNIV) is against what it alleges is a “legal witch-hunt” against former soldiers who served during the Troubles.

There is a strong security presence outside City Hall this afternoon due to the large crowds.

Source: PA Wire/PA Images

According the The Irish News, up to 500 protesters attended the rally in support of British army veterans.

The newspaper also reports that around 200 participants stood on one side of the police line “flying tricolours and holding placards accusing soldiers of committing murder during the Troubles”.

Source: Brian Lawless

While a number of Union flags were waved in the air, speakers called for an end to what they alleged was unfair treatment of ex-security force members.

Source: PA Wire/PA Images

Last year, two former soldiers were informed they will be prosecuted for allegedly murdering an IRA member in Northern Ireland more than 40 years ago.

The IRA member, Joe McCann was shot dead in Belfast on 15 April 1972.

The two soldiers, now in their 60s, were members of the Parachute Regiment patrol in the 1970s.