The recent news of the murder of a policeman and two soldiers in Northern Ireland in quick succession by rogue elements of the IRA was a worrying story, reminding us all of the bad old days of the troubles which we all thought had finally been resolved with the truce a little over 10 years ago.

But those responsible for these unprovoked attacks must have been a bit surprised with the results.

First off was the universal condemnation of their actions from all parts of the political spectrum, including Sinn Fein who went as far as urging anyone with information to contact the police; a previously unprecedented move, in view of the history of collusion between elements of the now defunct RUC and Loyalist Paramilitaries.

More important was the public display of outrage against those responsible for the killings as thousands of silent protesters from both sides of the divide joined rallies that took place in Belfast, Lisburn, Newry, Downpatrick and Londonderry.

With the overwhelming majority of both the Orange and Green preferring the path of peace and diplomacy, it is difficult to see any political legitimacy in the dissident movement as they clearly do not act on behalf of any significant proportion of the population of Northern Ireland. Without any political mandate, the dissidents are reduced to the level of common thugs and criminals, even as they make increasingly desperate attempts to continue perpetuating the cycle of violence.

Those responsible will be caught…and soon.

…Because there’s nowhere to run to or hide anymore.

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