There will be enormous concern over the circumstances surrounding the death of Marie Conlon in west Belfast, after it emerged that the last known sighting of her was in January, 2015.
A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of involvement in a number of offences, including murder, and it is vital that the police investigation receives full public cooperation.
However, there can only be alarm over suggestions that the body of a 68-year-old woman may have lain undiscovered in her apartment in a densely populated area of the city for almost three years.
It is vital that the relevant facts are established without delay, and throughout this process there will be huge sympathy for the family of Mrs Conlon.
