Police and emergency services at the scene on London Road in East Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly Sunday Life

Police and emergency services at the scene on London Road in East Belfast. Picture Colm O'Reilly Sunday Life

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a 53-year-old man at a flat in east Belfast.

Police and paramedics were called to an address in the London Road area shortly before 10am on Saturday.

Mark Ponisi was located in the living room and was pronounced dead a short time later.

Officers said the victim appeared to have sustained a number of injuries to his head and face - however a post-mortem examination will be carried out to determine the exact cause of death.

Detectives investigating the murder of the 53 year old man at a flat in east Belfast this morning Saturday 20 January have this evening named him as Mark Ponisi. — Police Service NI (@PoliceServiceNI) January 20, 2018

The officer leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Boyce said: "A 25-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman were arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody this afternoon assisting us with our enquiries.

"I am appealing for witnesses, or anyone who may have information about this crime, to get in touch with the investigation team by calling 101, quoting reference 347 of 20/01/18.”

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."

Belfast Telegraph