“Disgraceful Scenes” Condemned After Masked Gunmen Fire Shots in Derry

A senior local councillor has condemned what he described as “disgraceful scenes” after masked gunmen, said to be associated with Óglaigh na hÉireann, were filmed firing shots in a residential area of Derry.

Images and video circulating online show three armed men dressed in black clothing, with one individual kneeling and firing a volley of shots into the air. The men were seen displaying a flag linked to Óglaigh na hÉireann.

The incident is understood to have taken place in the Currynierin area of the city.

Sean Mooney, a Waterside councillor for the Social Democratic and Labour Party, strongly criticised the incident, warning that it had caused fear and alarm within the local community.

“These were disgraceful scenes that have no place in our communities,” Mr Mooney said. “They hark back to our dark past and the people of the Currynierin area do not want to see this kind of incident on their doorsteps.”

He added that footage of masked gunmen openly discharging firearms had understandably caused concern not only locally but across Derry more broadly.

“Those involved have nothing to offer our community and will not be allowed to intimidate people who are simply trying to get on with their lives,” he said.

Mr Mooney also highlighted the serious danger posed by the presence of firearms in residential areas, stressing the need for urgent police action.

“The presence of a firearm is deeply worrying and it is vital that it is taken off our streets before anyone is seriously hurt,” he said.

The councillor has urged anyone with information relating to the incident to contact police so that those responsible can be identified and held accountable.

There was no immediate confirmation of arrests at the time of publication.

Picture Image Credit - CrimeWorld