Warnings of dissident republican disorder during Easter

Police in Northern Ireland have warned of potential public disorder during the Easter period linked to dissident Republicans, who may attempt to draw officers into gun or bomb attacks. 

The threat level for terrorism in Northern Ireland was raised to severe by MI5 recently, meaning that an attack is highly likely. 

Events are being held to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, which ended the 30 years of conflict in Northern Ireland known as the Troubles, costing more than 3,500 lives. 

The PSNI has made temporary changes to shifts to put more officers onto frontline duties, and 300 officers from other UK forces will be drafted in to help with the security operation around US President Joe Biden’s upcoming visit. 

A violent feud between drug gangs previously linked to the Ulster Defence Association has also been reported in the town of Newtownards in Northern Ireland.

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