THE PSNI has confirmed it has begun a criminal investigation into allegations made in a BBC Spotlight programme two weeks ago on the sexual and financial affairs of Iris Robinson.
A spokesman said last night the investigation will seek to establish whether any criminal offence has been committed by Ms Robinson “and by any other person referred to in the programme”.
The investigation is led by Det Chief Supt Roy McComb, head of the PSNI’s Organised Crime Branch, which specialises in complex financial investigations.
The police said: “The investigation will be conducted in a thorough and professional manner as expeditiously as possible. It will also be conducted with respect to the human rights of any person and in a manner that complies with the police service’s duty to carry out impartial and independent investigations in compliance with our code of ethics.
“The police service is aware of the substantial public interest in this investigation.
“The police remit is to investigate potential criminality, nothing else.
“Police will be making no further comment on the investigation at this time.”