The appearance of a new UVF mural in Lurgan has been condemned as a “clear attempt to mark territory and intimidate”.
Police have confirmed they are investigating the painting of the mural at Avenue Road in the Co Armagh town, beside the gates to Lurgan Park.
The mural features a small ‘1912′ below the UVF initials, in an a reference to the original Ulster Volunteers anti-home rule militia led by Edward Carson.
However, the words ‘Mid Ulster Brigade’ are also included in the mural, referring to the notorious wing of the modern loyalist paramilitary group, linked to sectarian murders and the Dublin and Monaghan bombings in 1974.
Alliance councillor for the Lurgan area, Peter Lavery, said in a Facebook post on Saturday: “I completely condemn the erection of a UVF mural in Lurgan which was painted in recent days on a wall near the Avenue Road entrance to Lurgan Park.
“This is not history or culture, instead is is a clear attempt to mark territory and intimidate.
“The community in Lurgan wants to be left in peace so they can get on with their lives. This sinister attempt to try to bring fear into the area will not deter people from continuing to progress towards a more positive future.”
He added: “This matter has been reported to the police and I would urge anyone with further information to contact the PSNI using 101.”
Police confirmed they received a report on the mural on Saturday.
Chief Inspector Stevenson said: “Our enquiries are ongoing. Lurgan Neighbourhood Policing Team officers will continue to engage with community representatives and partner agencies around this issue.”