The INLA in Derry have seized a batch of deadly weapons, including martial arts knives and an imitation gun, from young people across the city.
An imitation Walther pistol, a nine inch curved blade and a kitchen knife were confiscated in the Ballymagroarty, Bishop Street and Bogside areas on Monday night.
It's believed the gun - which was seized from a 16 year-old - was used in recent inc
idents in the Ballymagroarty area in which a masked and armed individual called at a number of houses, demanding cash at gunpoint.
The INLA says its volunteers seized the weapons after being contacted by concerned residents.
"The INLA is coming under increasing pressure from communities to take action against these activities," a spokeperson for the organisation told Foyle News. "We will keep a watching brief on the situation over the next few weeks. We are calling on people not to become involved in this activity or to carry weapons."
The INLA also issued a sinister warning to anyone identified as supplying knives and other weapons to young people. "We are warning those selling these weapons that they will be held responsible for their actions."
Seizure welcomed
The IRSP - the political wing of the INLA - has welcomed the seizure of the weapons and is urging a "community response" to deal with knife crime.
"Following the seizure of weapons from the streets of Derry by the INLA, the IRSP wish to place on public record our gratitude towards the INLA in helping to make the streets that much safer," said a party spokesperson.
"There has been a recent upsurge in the use of knives and guns in Derry and the pro-active approach by the INLA has undoubtedly saved people from serious injury or even death. But the INLA cannot act in isolation. There must be a united community response to this type of activity."
