In the aftermath of a Republican Easter event, a security operation has been set up at a cemetery in County Louth, Ireland. The operation follows reports of a gathering that took place at the cemetery during which crowds gathered and a number of makeshift memorials were erected. BreakingNews.ie brings you the latest on the security operation and the measures being taken to ensure public safety in the area.
A security operation has been launched at Derry’s City Cemetery after an Easter Monday republican commemoration was held there. Officers closed the cemetery to visitors while they examined the scene, with two robots being used to help in the investigation. The operation took place one day after the event at the republican plot in the cemetery.
During the pre-commemoration parade in the Central Drive area of Creggan, young people hurled several missiles, including petrol bombs, at a police Land Rover, which was monitoring the parade. The violence prompted police to take action to secure the area around the cemetery.
Despite the parade being illegal, a group of masked men in paramilitary-style dress carried the Irish flag and a number of republican flags. As the parade moved towards the City Cemetery, the police Land Rover came under attack with masked youths throwing petrol bombs and firing fireworks at the vehicle. The Land Rover was set on fire, and police had to withdraw from the area.
A small funeral took place at the cemetery during the closure, but visitors were kept out while the security operation was underway. Foyle MP Colum Eastwood tweeted about the closure, saying that “People can’t get to the graves of their loved ones because of the actions of a few with no political mandate and no support.”
The security operation was aimed at ensuring that the cemetery is safe and can be used by the public once again. The police have pledged to maintain a visible presence in the area and to respond robustly to any incidents of violence or disorder.
The situation in Derry is highly charged, with tensions running high between different groups. The police have been targeted in several violent incidents in recent months, and there has been unrest on the streets. The situation is being closely monitored by the authorities, and they have warned that tough action will be taken against anyone caught engaging in acts of violence.
The closure of the Cemetery has caused some inconvenience to local people who had planned to visit their loved ones’ graves, but the authorities say that they had no choice but to act. The security operation was necessary to ensure that the area is safe for everyone to use and that there is no risk of further incidents of violence or unrest.
The situation in Derry illustrates the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in dealing with sectarianism and political violence. Despite the progress made in recent years, there are still deep divisions and bitterness that can flare up at any time. The police and other authorities need to remain vigilant and focused to ensure that everyone can live safely and peacefully together.
