Issue 2 - 2024 200dpi

3 July 1997 Edition

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RUC beating followed Springfield Orange march

By Eoin O Broin

Sinn Fein Councillor Tom Hartley has accused the RUC of beating a West Belfast man following Saturday's Orange march along the Springfield Road.

The RUC were out in full force on Saturday 28 June to ensure the passage of an Orange parade through a section of the Springfield Road where nationalists have objected to such sectarian marches.

Hartley, who spent several hours in the area monitoring events told An Phoblacht:

``A large force of riot clad RUC wielding a new plastic baton, forced their way into the home of Kevin Docherty. They pushed women and young children to the ground, terrified everyone present and set about Docherty. Mr Docherty was beaten about the head and body and had to be taken to the City Hospital by ambulance. He has suffered a serious head injury and extensive bruising.''

Hartley said there was no justification for the attack on defenceless nationalists standing at their homes.
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An Phoblacht
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Ireland