DETECTIVES are investigating after a 23-year-old man was viciously assaulted by a loyalist gang in punishment style assault in east Belfast.

The incident happened near to the Comber Greenway in Knock this evening, Tuesday, June 12.

At approximately 6.30 pm police received a report that a 23-year-old man had been assaulted by a group of approximately six-to seven men, who had hammers, bats and knuckleduster.

He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries, which are not believed to be life threatening at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives on the 101 number.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555 111.