Write a commentThe office of Saoradh in * St Mary Street in Newry was raided yesterday as part of Operation Arbacia, a coordinated operation by PSNI at four locations throughout the north.
Speaking of the operation Crime Operations Assistant Chief Constable Barbara Gray said “Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Terrorism Investigation Unit have today searched properties at four locations in Belfast, Dungannon, Newry, and Derry/Londonderry in connection with an ongoing investigation into the activities of the New IRA."
Saoradh's Newry representative Stephen Murney commenting on the police operation said "Despite today's Crown Force raid on our local revolutionary hub, our Newry office at 32 St Mary's Street will be open as normal.
"Unfortunately due to those actions by the RUC/PSNI a number of welfare rights/benefits advice appointments had to be cancelled. However these will be rescheduled as we continue to help those within our communities.
"Despite being under heavy attack by MI5/RUC we are very much here to stay and open for business.
Mr Murney added "We take this opportunity to thank the St Mary's Street community, traders, workers, shoppers, residents and passers-by alike who offered us nothing but support and solidarity during todays ordeal.
"Such a public example of community solidarity clearly had a morale sapping effect on the RUC Crown Forces today, who were forced to stand and watch helplessly as locals rallied round. It is the RUC who are the unwanted strangers and outsiders. This is our terrain!!!"
Saoradh claim family phones, computers, games consoles and children’s school work was seized in the operation.
*Edit Correction Changed 'Patrick St' to St Mary St
