A LOYALIST paramilitary connection is being investigated after three men were assaulted in Derry.
The attack happened at around 1.40am on Sunday in Bonds Street in the Waterside area of the city.
Police received a report that a number of men had been seen walking along the street armed with a sledgehammer and hammers.
Three men, two in their thirties and one in his forties, were treated in hospital for injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.
Detective Sergeant Ray Phelan said: "We believe the three men were the victims of an unprovoked and cowardly attack by four assailants armed with weapons.
"Police are exploring a potential link to loyalist paramilitaries as part of our enquiries.
"We are keen to hear from anyone who was socialising in licensed premises on the Dungiven Road on Saturday night, and who witnessed any type of altercation."
