THERE have been calls for the immediate removal of threatening banners in the port town of Larne.
The threat against sea border staff is being seen as an escalation of tensions by loyalists in the town.
Graffiti threatening politicians has also appeared in Co Antrim in the last week.
Sinn Féin councillor James McKeown called for their immediate removal of all banners.
"Such language creates an atmosphere which has led to attacks on public representatives," he said.
"This is particularly concerning at a time when there are ongoing threats to Sinn Féin public representatives and those from other parties and their offices.
"I have contacted the chief executive of Mid and East Antrim Council and the PSNI to call for the immediate removal of these sinister banners."