Eirigi slam PSNI

REPUBLICAN group Éirígí have slammed police raids which took place in the town last week.

Officers carried out searches in Kilwilke and Taghnevan last Wednesday (September 21) as part of an investigation into “dissident terrorist activity”.

No arrests were made during the operation.

Éirígí general secretary Breandán MacCionnaith accused the PSNI of “continuing harassment”.

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“Early morning raids are something that republicans in the Lurgan area are unfortunately very used to,” said Mr MacCionnaith.

“However, that in no way lessens the trauma caused when a family finds its home invaded and their possessions being rifled through.”

He claimed there were around 100 police officers involved in the operation.

One ‘MAIL’ source said that Playstations, mobile phones and even Tesco Clubcards were confiscated during the searches.

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Mr MacCionnaith continued: “The PSNI arrived at the homes at 7am and were continuing with one raid this afternoon.

“Among the homes raided were those belonging to relatives of imprisoned Armagh republican Colin Duffy.

“Not only did the PSNI place massive strain on children by demanding they be taken from their beds so armed strangers could trample through their homes, they also confiscated harmless equipment being used for school projects and homework.”

He added: “These raids are about one thing – persecuting republicans for their political beliefs and activities.

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“The ongoing harassment of the Duffy family is an extra malicious element that has been added by the PSNI.

“The families targeted this morning should be left alone to get on with their lives in peace.”

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