A murder investigation has been launched by the PSNI following the death of a man in his 50s who was assaulted in east Belfast earlier this week.
Detective Chief Inspector Duffie said police received a report at around 8.25am on Tuesday of an assault in the Holywood Road area.
It is understood a number of intruders entered an apartment building and attacked a man before fleeing the scene.
Police believe the assault occurred at approximately 4.45am that morning.
Emergency services, including the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, attended the scene and the 51-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment.
The PSNI has since confirmed the man has died, with detectives now treating the case as a murder investigation.
A 24-year-old man and a 49-year-old woman had previously been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary with intent to commit grievous bodily harm.
Both were later released on bail to allow for further police enquiries.
The PSNI have appealed for anyone who may have been in the Holywood Road area on Tuesday and witnessed anything suspicious to come forward.
Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone with dash-cam, CCTV or doorbell footage that could assist the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 224 of 12/05/26.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
