Investigation into Co Monaghan killing upgraded to murder

Gardaí this evening launched a murder investigation into the brutal killing of a 21-year-old South Armagh man in Co Monaghan at the weekend.

Paul Quinn of Annamar Road, Cullyhanna, died from injuries he sustained in a savage beating after being lured to a farm in Co Monaghan on Saturday night.

The results of a post mortem examination, which were released tonight, determined that the injuries which led his death are consistent with a serious assault.

Up to 10 men are thought to have carried out the savage attack, possibly as part of a deepening row over fuel laundering and racketeering.

Gardaí at Castleblaney have issued an appeal to anyone who may have information to come forward

The DUP has warned that proof of IRA involvement could mean the end of power sharing in the north, though Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has categorically denied any republican involvement.