News

Deadly group asserting itself as a stand-alone organisation

ANALYSIS

THE latest statement from the 'IRA' asserts its credentials as a stand-alone organisation within the republican community.

Formed after a merger between the Real IRA, Republican Action Against Drugs and independent republican units in 2012, the group has become the largest and most active republican paramilitary organisation on the island. Sources say there is "unfinished business" in terms of removing unwanted elements and the process of "clearing the decks" is continuing.

The group has denied any link with the numerous anti-agreement republican groups that have sprung up over the last two decades.

In the past the 32 County Sovereignty Movement spoke on behalf of the Real IRA but the 'IRA' says it has no links to it or any other organisation.

It is understood that a dispute between the Irish Republican Prisoners' Welfare Association and the 32 County Sovereignty Movement over a mural in support of republican prisoners has brought recent differences into sharp focus. Since its formation in 2012 the 'IRA' has emerged as a threat to the security forces and is prepared to kill.

Worryingly for authorities, it appears to have developed a sophisticated arsenal of commercial and improvised weapons.