DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY
Naval Postgraduate School
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DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY |
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Description
Extremist terrorist group formed in 1996 as a
faction of the mainstream loyalist Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) but did
not emerge publicly until February 1997. Composed largely of UVF
hardliners who have sought to prevent a political settlement with Irish
nationalists in Northern Ireland by attacking Catholic politicians,
civilians, and Protestant politicians who endorse the Northern Ireland
peace process. Mark "Swinger" Fulton has led the group since the
assassination in December 1997 of LVF founder Billy "King Rat" Wright.
Has been observing a cease-fire since 15 May 1998. The LVF
decommissioned a small but significant amount of weapons in December
1998, but it did not repeat this gesture in 1999.
Activities
Bombings, kidnappings, and close-quarter
shooting attacks. LVF bombs often have contained Powergel commercial
explosives, typical of many loyalist groups. LVF attacks have been
particularly vicious: LVF terrorists killed an 18-year-old Catholic girl
in July 1997 because she had a Protestant boyfriend. Murdered numerous
Catholic civilians with no political or terrorist affiliations following
Billy Wright's assassination. Also has conducted successful attacks
against Irish targets in Irish border towns.
Strength
British press speculates about 250 activists.
Location/Area of Operation
Northern Ireland, Ireland.
External Aid
None.
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