Derry Daily
  • News
  • Entertainment
  • Sport
  • Features
  • Courts
  • Business
  • Health
  • Politics
  • Jobs
Tuesday 16°CWednesday 19°C

Derry Daily Derry Daily Derry Daily

  • News
  • Entertainment
  • Sport
  • Features
  • Courts
  • Business
  • Health
  • Politics
  • Jobs
NewsPolicing

Two arrested over police probe into INLA criminal activity in North West

written by John October 16, 2019
ShareTweet

INLA in Derry and Strabane involved in punishments attacks, extortion and counterfeit goods, say police

TWO men were arrested earlier today, Wednesday, October 16, by detectives investigating criminality linked to INLA in the North West.

The 57 year old man was arrested under the Terrorism Act in the Galliagh area of Derry.

And the 19 year old man was arrested under the Terrorism Act and the Misuse of Drugs Act in the Strabane area.

They have been taken to Musgrave Serious Crime Suite for questioning by police.

Three searches have also been carried out and a number of items were seized for further examination including a large quantity of documentation, mobile phones and electronic devices.

Detective Inspector Tom McClure said: “Today’s search and arrest operation is part of an ongoing investigation into the criminality of INLA in the North West.

“This group are a Service priority for the Paramilitary Crime Task Force due to the level of threat, risk and harm they pose to our communities, and the breadth and depth of their criminality.

“INLA in the North West are involved in violence, extortion and the supply of controlled drugs, illicit cigarettes and counterfeit goods and this strand of the investigation looks to take action against those directing this criminality and money laundering.

“Part of today’s operation also relates to an investigation into an incident on May 20 this year in the Divis area of Belfast, when an individual recklessly used an automatic weapon to fire a series of shots into the air in a heavily populated area.

“The INLA in Derry and Strabane claim to be protecting their communities by shooting people who they accuse of being involved in crime but the reality is that they use violence and intimidation to control and exploit their communities.

“Their real motivation for using extreme brutality is to try and ensure that no one speaks out or encroaches on what they see as ‘their patch’, where they try to run organised criminal rackets solely for their own financial gain.

INLA firing party at the wake of convicted child killer Martin McIlkerney in Belfast in May this year

“Sometimes they even shoot people who they feel do not show them ‘respect’ or who they simply do not like.

“The Criminal Justice System is the method that works when dealing with criminality such as drug dealing or anti-social behaviour.

“In fact, 78% of people subjected to paramilitary style attacks re-offend, quickly and often at a level more serious than before.

“In contrast, the re-offending rates of people who are dealt with through the criminal justice system are much lower – at less than a third – clearly demonstrating there is a better more effective alternative.

“Despite this, there has been an increase in the number of paramilitary style attacks over the past few weeks, which we believe have been carried out by INLA.

“The actions of this paramilitary group of thugs will do nothing but condemn communities to an escalated level of criminality, undermining the good work of others in the community who are trying to improve the lives and prospects of those in the local area.

“This activity today is evidence of our commitment to end paramilitary organised criminality in all its forms whether that be drug dealing, intimidation or paramilitary assaults.

“I know that there are many people in the local community who are affected by INLA’s drug dealing and violence and they support our ongoing efforts.

“However, I recognise and understand that there are some who may be reluctant to report crime to the PSNI for various reasons.

“I would like to reassure everyone in the community that the PSNI will investigate all reports of crime and anti-social behaviour lawfully, fairly and proportionately, and where there is evidence bring this before the courts.

“I would appeal for anyone with information regarding criminality by paramilitary organisations to contact police on 101.

“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

Two arrested over police probe into INLA criminal activity in North West was last modified: October 17th, 2019 by John

Tags:
BelfastDerryDI TOM MCCLUREDivis areaINLAPolicePSNIstrabaneTwo arrested over police probe into INLA criminal activity in North West
ShareTweet
John

LEAVE A COMMENT

You may also like

Feile 2025 unveil biggest programme of events

5 hours ago

Loughs Agency delivers extensive fisheries improvement works...

6 hours ago

Alcohol Forum Ireland seeks Finance Administrator/Bookkeeper for...

1 day ago

Motorcyclist seriously injured in Donegal collision

1 day ago

Council officially adopts Local Development Plan, LDP...

1 day ago

Second arrest made over 120 cannabis plant...

3 days ago

Charles Dooher murder bid: Man arrested in...

3 days ago

The LYCRA Company staff excited to continue...

3 days ago

Man arrested in Derry over murder bid...

4 days ago

Man to face Derry court over cannabis...

5 days ago

Keep in touch

Facebook Twitter Email

Features

  • Sun, sea, spectacular views, historical charm and fabulous food. Tunisia of course

    April 5, 2024
  • Magical trip to see Santa from Belfast

    December 20, 2023
  • DD Travel Feature: Cork’s amazing The Montenotte Hotel

    April 18, 2023
  • Derry cancer survivor Noeleen McMorris reveals importance of awareness

    July 25, 2022
  • Competition! Win tickets to Northern Ireland v England Women’s Euro 2022 match

    June 17, 2022

Courts

  • Woman charged over serious assault in Derry

    July 13, 2025
  • Man to face Derry court over cannabis plants seizure

    July 11, 2025
  • Man charged to court over Derry drugs seizure

    July 6, 2025
  • Drink-driver charged to court over Derry collision

    July 5, 2025
  • Derry priest faces seven more child sex charges

    July 4, 2025

Donegal Daily

    Read More

    • News
    • Sport
    • Courts
    • Jobs
    • Features
    • Business
    • Politics

    Information

    • Contact Us
    • About
    • Advertise WIth Us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Terms & Conditions
    Derry Daily

    © 2025 Derry Daily. All rights reserved.


    Back To Top

    We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.OkPrivacy policy