A redacted version of a leaked document containing the names of Northern Ireland police officers was openly posted near a Sinn Fein office in Belfast, signaling a troubling attempt to intimidate a party member. Sinn Fein’s Gerry Kelly, who serves as the party’s policing spokesperson, revealed that a version of the document with the officers’ names removed was displayed on a wall facing their Falls Road office.
Alongside the document was an unsettling photo of Gerry Kelly and a threatening message, stating “Gerry, we know who your mates are.” This occurrence follows previous claims by dissident republicans of possessing the leaked document, posing a significant security concern for the police force, known as the PSNI.
The leaked document, which had inadvertently surfaced online, included the names of approximately 10,000 officers and staff members. Gerry Kelly expressed his belief that this act was an overt attempt by dissident republicans to intimidate him personally and to demonstrate their access to sensitive information within the data leak document, posing a serious threat to both officers and civilian staff members involved.
Sinn Fein, a prominent party representing the nationalist community, remains resolute against intimidation by dissident groups. Gerry Kelly stated, “They should disband and end their anti-community activities.” The incident highlights the ongoing tension and security concerns faced by those involved in Northern Ireland’s political landscape.
