IRA distances itself from criminal activities of ‘former members’

THE Provisional IRA yesterday distanced itself from the hijacking of a vodka truck saying it had “no responsibility” for former members who had embraced criminal activity.

In its traditional Easter statement, the paramilitary group yesterday disowned what it described as the tiny number of former republicans involved in crime for self-gain.

“We repudiate this activity and denounce those involved,” it said. “The IRA remains committed to the peace process. Our decisions and actions of last July and September are proof of that.”