Sinn Fein MP condemns ‘faceless thugs’ from new republican group after it calls politicians in Newry area ‘legitimate targets’

https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/politics/sinn-fein-mp-condemns-faceless-thugs-from-new-republican-group-after-it-calls-politicians-in-newry-area-legitimate-targets/a792715079.html

A Sinn Fein MP has called for unity after “faceless thugs” from what appears to be a new far-right republican group issued threats on social media, describing politicians in the Newry area as “legitimate targets” .

A “deeply concerned” DUP councillor is also demanding an investigation after the video appeared on X, formerly Twitter.

In the video, a masked man with what appeared to be a handgun read a statement to “the people of Newry, Mourne and Down”.

The man said the group, ‘The New Republican Movement’, is frustrated with “mass immigration” and “the sexual indoctrination of children in school”.

He said the New Republican Movement “will take immediate action against anyone who threatens our way of life, and the safety of our women and children”.

He finishes the video by stating that all local representatives are “legitimate targets”.

Behind the man reading the statement is an Irish flag and two other men wearing balaclavas.

​ https://x.com/real_eire/status/1995573797777481803https://x.com/real_eire/status/1995573797777481803 ​

Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes described the threats made against elected members in the Newry, Mourne and Down area as “sinister”.

The Newry and Armagh MP said: "The sinister threats issued by faceless thugs against elected members of Newry, Mourne and Down are an attack on democracy and on the mandate each of us as elected members receives from the public.

“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.

“Despite bombs planted at our offices and chilling threats made through social media, Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for our people.

“I send solidarity to each of my elected colleagues across our constituencies. Let us stand as one against these deluded individuals.”

Alan Lewis, a DUP councillor for the area, has demanded an investigation into the video.

“As a public representative, I am deeply concerned by the presence of any armed group,” he told the Belfast Telegraph.

"It is alarming and must be addressed immediately. The threats contained in the recent video are direct and could be real. Too often we have seen masked gunmen standing in front of the Irish tricolour.

"This ominous display must be fully investigated. Do they have access to munitions, where have these come from, and are they prepared to use them, and against whom.

"The public must have confidence that these groups are being properly and thoroughly investigated,” he said.

Alan Lewis DUP

Mr Lewis acknowledged the concerns his constituents may have around immigration.

“There are genuine concerns regarding uncontrolled illegal immigration, however nobody should be misled by this Robin Hood approach adopted by those who would attempt to exploit the situation.

He urged the PSNI to take action against the group.

“The people of this district know all too well how republicans have used weapons in the past. Groups like this must be confronted by the authorities and removed without delay.”

The PSNI has been contacted for comment.