The ongoing death threats against journalist Patricia Devlin have taken a severe turn. The two latest threats —including a death threat— were made by the Ulster Defence Association (UDA), a loyalist paramilitary group in Northern Ireland. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) follows the malicious attacks against Patricia with great concern. As these threats can carry severe consequences, we call again on the Northern Ireland authorities and security forces to ensure the journalist and her family’s safety.

The ongoing death threats, including intimidations of rape against journalist Patricia Devlin and her baby son, continue to escalate. Patricia Devlin intends to seek legal action against the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) unless he can assure that the PSNI will conduct an immediate investigation into the violent threats against her. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) is keeping a close eye on rising threats, though the absence of a legitimate investigation is of deep concern to us. We urge PSNI to conduct a thorough inspection of the matter.

Patricia Devlin, an award-winning crime reporter working for the Sunday World, has been target of vicious online attacks and threats to her family since 2019 for her coverage on crime, drug and criminal gangs, and how their activities are intertwined with certain loyalist paramilitary groups.