POLICE are investigating after an estimated 250 people attended an arranged fight in Co Armagh yesterday.
The clash, which took place at a disused yard at Battleford Road, near Benburb, attracted hundreds of spectators to the rural area.
A large number of PSNI officers attended the scene.
The Irish News understands that the organised fight involved members of two well known Traveller families based in east Tyrone.
It is believed that the bare-knuckle showdown was arranged several months ago via WhatsApp.
In audio recordings said to be of conversations which took place in the lead up to the fight one man can be heard threatening: "When we meet we will fight like Russians".
Sources say the final arrangements for the fight were expected to be made by phone yesterday morning, at which point those taking part where told where to go.
Footage of a fight seen by The Irish News appears to show two bare chested men exchanging blows as a large crowd looks on.
The footage also appears to show several PSNI officers also watching in the background from a distance.
Aontú councillor Denise Mullen last night voiced concern about the gathering.
"While the rest of us are eagerly waiting for the lockdown to end you have other sections of the community organising mindless fights," she said.
"They have no thought for themselves, other families or the wider community.
"The police will have to explain what they did to break this up."
Chief Inspector Barney O'Connor said police attended the fight venue "in relation to a large crowd of people attending an organised fight event.
"We estimate approximately 250 people were in attendance at this gathering, which was clearly a breach of Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations," he said.
He added that an investigation is underway.
"This caused concern among the local community, as well as causing disruption due to the large number of vehicles in the area belonging to those in attendance."
"Significant engagement took place between our officers and those in attendance, and the crowd subsequently left the area.
"An investigation is underway and evidence gathered will now be reviewed, and breaches of the Regulations will be reported to the Public Prosecution Service."
