Probe into ‘sinister’ threats launched
The PSNI has begun a criminal investigation into threats made to elected representatives in Newry, Mourne and Down.
The threats were made by masked and armed men in a video circulating on social media.
District Commander Superintendent Lynne Corbett said: “It is completely unacceptable that anyone should face such threats and intimidation for carrying out the duties of the office to which they have been democratically elected. We have commenced an investigation to identify those responsible.
“Police in Newry, Mourne and Down will continue engaging closely with our local elected representatives and will do all we can to ensure they feel supported and safe in our communities, and that they can undertake their role free from intimidation.”
Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes described the threats as ‘sinister’. “Let me be crystal clear, these faceless individuals represent no one and they will not deter me or my party colleagues from carrying out our work, every day, representing our constituents.”
SDLP NMDDC Group Leader, Councillor Pete Byrne, said: “This is a disgraceful attempt to intimidate local representatives. We all got involved in politics to try and make life better for people in our area, and nobody ever expected to face threats of this nature.”