Portadown parade involving masked men investigated

Police have said they are investigating a parade that took place in Portadown, County Armagh, on Monday.

Social media footage appears to show a number of masked men taking part in a loyalist band parade.

Police said they received a report regarding an "un-notified parade in the Jervis Street area of Portadown".

Sinn Féin assembly member John O'Dowd said "reckless rhetoric from unionist politicians has seen tensions rise right across the community".

"Tonight's so-called band parade in Portadown was led by masked men through the streets," he added.

"I would appeal for calm and I call on those in positions of influence in political unionism to demonstrate more measured and responsible leadership before someone is killed or seriously injured."

However, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart of the DUP, said that "Sinn Féin's arrogant disregard for the Covid regulations is to blame for this political crisis".

She added: "When there is a double standard by the police, then that damages respect for the law.

"For my part, I will oppose law-breaking in all forms.

"All law-breaking is wrong. I urge those loyalists, frustrated by the actions of Sinn Féin, to step back.

"Remain peaceful and stay off the streets. We don't want young lives criminalised. Two wrongs don't make a right."

Meanwhile, about 300 people marched through the Ballykeel estate in Ballymena on Monday night.

Police officers were at the scene.

A social media post said the march was to show support for loyalist culture.