A chilling video featuring armed and masked men threatening elected politicians in Northern Ireland has spread rapidly online, drawing widespread condemnation and prompting a police investigation.
'Sinister' Threats Against 'Legitimate Targets'
In the footage, described as 'sinister' by political leaders, a man clad in a black hoodie, balaclava, and blue surgical gloves reads from a prepared statement. He is flanked by two other masked individuals dressed in black and holding firearms, with an Irish flag displayed behind them.
The speaker directly threatened politicians in the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area, labelling them as 'legitimate targets'. The group, calling itself the 'New Republican Movement', cited an increase in migration into the country as a primary motive for their threats.
Video Spreads Online and Sparks Investigation
The video was posted on social media, where it amassed a staggering 2.1 million views on the platform X, formerly Twitter, alone. It was shared by an account known for posting anti-immigrant content.
In response, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched a formal investigation. Superintendent Lynne Corbett stated it was "completely unacceptable" for anyone to face such intimidation for performing their democratic duties. She confirmed police are engaging with local representatives to ensure their safety and support.
Political Condemnation and Wider Context
Condemnation came swiftly from across Northern Ireland's political spectrum. Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes called the threats from "faceless thugs" an attack on democracy itself. An SDLP councillor from the affected area described the incident as a worrying "escalation" following months of tensions around immigration policy locally.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened anti-immigrant sentiment, with both peaceful and violent protests occurring in parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland in recent months. The council area in question has stated it hosts among the lowest numbers of asylum seekers in Northern Ireland, with fewer than 300 in hotel accommodation.
The group also referenced opposition to the so-called 'sexual indoctrination' of school children as a reason for its formation. Authorities continue to work to identify the individuals responsible for the menacing broadcast.
