The Sinn Fein president, Mr Gerry Adams, said that he had no knowledge of republicans being involved in a number of recent so called punishment beatings in Dundalk.
Speaking on local radio yesterday, Mr Adams said that punishment beatings should end. He added that communities had a right to defend themselves against drug pushers, but said that this was not a justification for punishment beatings.
Gardai in Dundalk are investigating the fifth such assault in the town in a month. On Sunday night, a man was attacked in front of his wife at his home in Glenmore Park by six men wearing balaclavas and carrying baseball bats. He was treated in Louth County Hospital for injuries to his arms and legs and superficial cuts to his face. Gardai say that his attackers, who did not identify themselves, escaped in a van. Ten days ago, a 30 year old man was attacked on the same estate.
Gardai investigating the attacks have requested anyone with information to contact them on 042-35577.