A man has been shot in the leg during an incident in the New Lodge.
The emergency services are in attendance following the incident which is believed to have taken place just after 8pm in the Donore Court area.
Paramedics were seen treating a man at the scene and a police cordon has now been put in place.
Police say a man in his 20s has been shot in his right knee and he has been taken to hospital with potentially life changing injuries.
North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín, said the incident was a "complete disgrace" and that the community was getting fed up with anti-social behaviour.
She said: "Someone shot in New Lodge. Complete disgrace and residents here are really fed up with ongoing anti-social behaviour.
"Residents also told Sinn Fein North Belfast they are fed up with the area getting a bad reputation by a minority."
Police have described the attack as "barbaric" and it has the hallmarks of a paramilitary style assault.
Detective Sergeant Gardiner said: "At 7.58pm this evening it was reported to police that a male had been shot in his right knee. The male, aged in his late 20s has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries, which while not life threatening could potentially be life-changing.
"While our enquires are at an early stage, this barbaric shooting bears all the hallmarks of a paramilitary style assault. Those responsible for this violent act do not represent the interests of this community, nor do they contribute anything to it. They do it to try and exert influence, or gain control of people through fear.
"An investigation is underway and I appeal to anyone with any information to call detectives on 101 quoting reference number 1791/10/20.
"You can also submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting from http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.
"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime".
