Statement by Craigavon TUV Councillor Mark Russell:

“I utterly condemn those who carried out this barbaric murder. This officer was murdered while serving his community, answering a call for help from a distressed woman. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at what must be an extremely difficult time.

“It now behooves all political parties – particularly Sinn Fein/IRA – to give their complete and unconditional support to the forces of the state. I regret but cannot say I am surprised by the reaction of John O'Dowd who refused to support any plans to reintroduce the army to take on the terrorists. Republicans cannot be said to support the rule of law if they do not support all measures to crush the those behind last night’s attack.

“Total and unreserved support for all braches of the security forces must be forthcoming. Sadly, Sinn Fein/IRA have thus far failed to demonstrate this.”