26/05/2004
End 'sordid' turf war says Minister
Security Minister, Ian Pearson has called on those engaged in recent attacks in loyalist east Belfast to "end their sordid turf war".
Mr Pearson was speaking following a security briefing by the Chief Constable, Hugh Orde.
The Minister said: "Whatever those engaged in this so called loyalist feud call themselves, they are no more than gangs engaged in criminal activities of all kinds, fighting a sordid turf war.
"Our position is clear. We welcome the commitment and engagement of those who want to work for a safe and stable community. But those who do not will be dealt with as the criminals they are".
Mr Pearson's comments follows a police report which said that five bomb attacks and one shooting in the area over the past week were "potentially linked" to a feud between the Loyalist Volunteer Force and Ulster Volunteer Force.
The escalating violence followed last week's murder of 34-year-old Brian Stewart, who was shot dead as he travelled to work in east Belfast.
Mr Stewart was believed to have been a member of the LVF.
(MB)
Mr Pearson was speaking following a security briefing by the Chief Constable, Hugh Orde.
The Minister said: "Whatever those engaged in this so called loyalist feud call themselves, they are no more than gangs engaged in criminal activities of all kinds, fighting a sordid turf war.
"Our position is clear. We welcome the commitment and engagement of those who want to work for a safe and stable community. But those who do not will be dealt with as the criminals they are".
Mr Pearson's comments follows a police report which said that five bomb attacks and one shooting in the area over the past week were "potentially linked" to a feud between the Loyalist Volunteer Force and Ulster Volunteer Force.
The escalating violence followed last week's murder of 34-year-old Brian Stewart, who was shot dead as he travelled to work in east Belfast.
Mr Stewart was believed to have been a member of the LVF.
(MB)
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