Northern Ireland

Police unable to confirm investigation into alleged drug-taking by Twelfth bandsmen

The pair in full band uniform were filmed surreptitiously in a back alley
The pair in full band uniform were filmed surreptitiously in a back alley The pair in full band uniform were filmed surreptitiously in a back alley

Police have been unable to confirm whether they are investigating apparent drug-taking by loyalist bandsmen that was captured on video.

Video footage widely shared on social media appears to show two male adults snorting a substance during Wednesday's Twelfth celebrations.

The pair in full band uniform were filmed surreptitiously in a back alley snorting the unidentified substance from a so-called snuff spoon.

One of those in the footage appears to be wearing a harness for carrying a lodge or band banner.

While the exact location of the incident is not known, it is understood to have taken place in Belfast city centre during Wednesday's Twelfth celebrations.

When asked by the Irish News if police were investigating the incident, a spokesperson said: "Without any further information it’s not possible to search the system for reports." 

Read more: Actions of some over Twelfth bring ‘shame on us all' – Beattie

Annual parades to mark Twelfth of July in Northern Ireland