PSNI investigate SF death threats

New death threats have been issued against Sinn Fein officials in Belfast, it was revealed today.

New death threats have been issued against Sinn Fein officials in Belfast, it was revealed today.

A package containing bullets and six names, including that of party president Gerry Adams' press aide, was delivered to the Ulster Television studios in the city.

Personal details on other Sinn Fein members, along with the editor of a west Belfast newspaper, were also included in the parcel.

Police confirmed they were investigating the threats, which it was claimed were from the Red Hand Defenders, a cover name used by loyalist terrorists.

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Among those named were Richard McAuley, Mr Adams' media adviser, and Robin Livingstone, editor of the Andersonstown News.

The addresses of some of those targeted are believed to have been included.

Paul Maskey, a Sinn Fein MLA for West Belfast, appealed for support from unionists and police.

Linking it to an attack earlier this month on the offices of the party's Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew, he said: "This news is sinister, disturbing and not in isolation.

"This threat sent to UTV, which included bullets, claims to be from the Red Hand Defenders.

"I urge unionist politicians to show mature leadership, condemn these threats and use whatever influence they have to stop these actions.

"The PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) also has an obligation to inform those named of the nature of the threat and to act forthwith."

Mr Maskey vowed: "Sinn Fein will not be deterred in delivering real change for all the people of Ireland."

A PSNI spokeswoman refused to comment on individuals' security.

But she said: "However, we can confirm that it was reported to us this morning that a media outlet had received a number of suspect items in a letter. Investigations are continuing."