Politician condemns social media threats made against him

A Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) politician has condemned a "series of vile and threatening comments" made against him on social media.

South Antrim MLA, Trevor Clarke, said: "The language used in these posts is shocking and deeply concerning. These are not throwaway remarks, they are explicit threats of violence and intimidation."

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said it had received a report on Friday of threatening online messages made to a local elected representative.

It added that their investigation is ongoing.

Clarke said that "no one in public life should have to tolerate this kind of abuse".

"Those responsible must be held accountable for their actions," he said.

"It is an attack not just on me as an individual, but on the democratic process itself."

Clarke said he will not be intimidated and will continue to do his job "without fear or favour".

Det Sgt Crothers from the PSNI said it was a "worrying reality" that elected representatives were "routinely subjected" to abuse and threats.

"This is wholly unacceptable and we will robustly investigate any offences reported to us," he said.

"We will also continue to do all we can to ensure that all of our politicians are supported and that they can undertake their role free from fear and intimidation."