Five ‘terror’ arrests after Northern Ireland paramilitary march turns violent
Five men have been arrested on suspicion of terror offences after violence erupted in Northern Ireland.
Molotov cocktails were thrown at police vans after dissident republicans marched through Derry/Londonderry.
A group wearing paramilitary-style clothing and accused of links to the New IRA marched through the city this afternoon.
The group – which calls itself Saoradh – went ahead with the march despite appeals from the family of murdered journalist Lyra McKee.
It coincided with the three-year anniversary of her death. She was struck by a stray bullet while covering rioting in the Creggan area of the city in 2019.
Vigils took place in her memory in Belfast and Derry on Monday.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland said the five men – aged 29, 38, 40, 50 and 54 – were arrested under the Terrorism Act.
A sixth 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour.
All six men are in custody and police seized ‘a number of vehicles, suspected terrorist uniforms and petrol bombs’.
Chief superintendent Ryan Henderson, Derry and Strabane district commander, said: ‘Earlier today, police were in attendance at a notified parade in the city.
‘On the basis of initial observation, participants in the parade were assessed as having potentially committed criminal offences.
‘Police monitored the event closely and at what was considered to be an appropriate point, took action to secure evidence and make arrests.
‘Whilst doing so, police officers came under attack from petrol bombs and masonry.
‘Our officer showed tremendous courage and professionalism in what was still clearly a dangerous situation.
‘Fortunately, none of our officers, or members of the public were injured as a result of this reckless and criminal behaviours.
‘Our enquiries will continue over the coming days and weeks bring offenders to justice.’
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