A south Armagh councillor has issued a stark warning to so‑called cross‑border crime gangs, insisting local people “stand together” against the violence and intimidation they bring.
Slieve Gullion Sinn Féin councillor Declan Murphy said the “overwhelming majority” of the south Armagh community rejects criminality in all its forms and wants those responsible “brought before the courts”.
He was speaking after what he described as “further serious criminal incidents” carried out by a well-known cross-border criminal gang.
“South Armagh is a resilient community, built on respect, hard work and neighbourliness,” he said.
“The overwhelming majority of people here reject criminality in all its forms. I unequivocally condemn those individuals and organised criminal gangs currently involved in serious criminal activity.
“They are motivated solely by greed and personal gain, and their actions have no place in south Armagh.
“Our communities have worked hard to build a safe and positive future, and we will not allow it to be undermined by those who seek to profit through fear and criminality.
“The people of south Armagh stand together against these criminals and reject the violence, intimidation and lawlessness they bring.”
Cllr Murphy said the impact of such activity on local families and businesses was “devastating”.
“It creates fear, damages public confidence, and leaves many people feeling vulnerable in their own homes and communities. No family should have to live under the threat of intimidation or criminal behaviour.
“Whether it is intimidation, dangerous driving, vandalism, arson, or attacks on property and individuals, these acts only serve to undermine community safety and destroy the quality of life for everyone. They also place an unacceptable burden on residents who simply want to live in peace.”
He said tackling organised crime would require a “united community response”, alongside properly resourced policing.
“Tackling organised crime requires a united community response, and those responsible must be held accountable for their actions,” he added.
“The PSNI must secure the resources needed to close these gangs down and take these individuals off our streets.
“I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and anyone with information about their activity or whereabouts [to] contact the PSNI immediately.”
