UK: Increased security in place for dissident republican marches in Londonderry on April 10

Event

Authorities will increase security measures in Londonderry for two parades by dissident republicans planned for April 10. The first parade is scheduled for the Rosemount area at an unspecified time in the morning, while the second is scheduled for the Creggan area in the afternoon; neither parade has received sanction from local authorities. The actions will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, which is strongly opposed by dissident republicans. Additionally, dissident republicans traditionally hold a parade in Londonderry on Easter Mondays, which falls on April 10 in 2023, to mark the anniversary of the Easter Rising Rebellion of 1916; these parades have degenerated into violence in the past. Police have reportedly received intelligence that dissident republicans may draw police into public disorder on the day and use that to launch attacks on security personnel.

Additional police will deploy to monitor all gatherings. Large crowds and associated security measures, including road closures and movement restrictions, will likely result in localized transport disruptions in affected areas. Sectarian gatherings in Northern Ireland have a high propensity to escalate to violence. Security services may deploy riot-control measures, such as water cannon, in attempts to subdue violent demonstrations. While bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence, they would face an indirect threat of physical harm.

Context

The protests come amid an already elevated security posture on the part of authorities after the UK Security Service (MI5) raised the Northern Ireland-related Terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland from "Substantial" to "Severe" on March 28. The decision was taken following an increase in activity relating to Northern Ireland-related terrorism in recent weeks, including an attack on a senior Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) officer on Feb. 22. The "Severe" threat designation officially means that an attack is highly likely.

Advice

Avoid all protests. If clashes break out, depart the area immediately. Anticipate possible disruption from heightened security measures and increased scrutiny from security services. Plan accordingly for short-term security-related disruptions, which could occur with little-to-no warning. Remain calm and nonconfrontational, and comply with authorities' instructions. Report any suspicious behavior or objects to authorities.