Other News In Brief

Newry Boxer Denies Allegations Made By Vigilante Group

Conor Wallace, an amateur boxer representing Northern Ireland in this year's Commonwealth Games, has denied allegations made against him in a video posted to Facebook by a so-called vigilante group.

In the video, live streamed on Sunday, 14 January, Wallace (21) is confronted outside the Canal Court Hotel in Newry.

In his own video also posted to Facebook, Wallace said that he had not been arrested, nor charged and was removed from the scene by the PSNI for "his own safety".

He states: "To whom it may concern, you may be aware of the videos circulating on Facebook of me being confronted by a group of men and women at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry.

"After being lured this morning to train a man who contacted me on Snapchat, after I arranged to meet him, I arrived at the Canal Court to be met by a group of vigilante-style people who made all kinds of accusations against me. I would like to make it public that I have not been arrested nor charged with anything.

"The PSNI took me for my own safety after a member of the public rang the PSNI after he witnessed me being cornered by men wearing knuckledusters etc.

"I appreciate all your help and support in this matter.

"This is all I can say as my legal team is now dealing with this matter.

"Thank you very much for your help and support."

Multiple Vehicle Collision On M2 Motorway

Major traffic delays were caused in Belfast this morning following a multiple vehicle collision during the morning rush hour.

Motorists were urged to avoid the M2 motorway city wards, this morning shortly before 8am.

There have been no reports of injuries, but police said they expected the road to remain closed for a number of hours and advised motorists of ongoing delays.

Investigation Launched After Front Door Set Alight In Lisburn

An investigation has been launched into the cause of a suspicious fire at a house in Lisburn.

A man and a woman escaped injured after the front door of their house in Ballymacross Hill was set alight some time between 6am and 6.45am on Sunday, 14 January.

While appealing for witnesses to the incident, police also thanked a member of the public who alerted the residents to the fire.

(MH/LM)