Gerry Adams

Divisions in the republican movement have emerged in the wake of a continuing row over IRA involvement in criminal activity.

Speaking on Wednesday, Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams admitted he could be "wrong" to accept an IRA statement that it was not involved in the £26.5 million Northern Bank robbery.

Meanwhile, the paramilitary organisation was also forced to issue a statement denying it was involved in the murder of Robert McCartney during a Belfast pub brawl.

The bank raid and murder have led to increased pressure on senior republicans to accept demands that they end all involvement in illegal activity.

Sinn Fein is already facing possible sanctions from the British and Irish governments as a result of the Northern Bank robbery.

And the latest Belfast murder has led to further criticism of paramilitary thuggery.

Even long-time IRA members are reported to have been angered by McCartney's murder.

Bank raid denials

Despite having been blamed for the Northern Bank robbery by both governments, the IRA has denied any involvement.

Meanwhile, the Independent Monitoring Commission has said senior Sinn Fein members had prior knowledge of the theft.

Interviewed by a Madrid radio station, Adams said he did not believe the IRA carried out the robbery.

"The IRA has said it was not them. I believe them," he said. "But maybe I am wrong."

Murder claim

While one republican row continues, another has been flaring up over recent days.

Following his stabbing on January 30, McCartney's family have accused IRA members of being behind the death.

They have also criticised the intimidation of witnesses to the event.

That has left republicans in the difficult position of seeking to recommend action short of co-operating with the police - such as taking information to a priest, a solicitor or the family of the murdered man.

In a bid to clarify the situation an IRA statement, issued on Wednesday evening, said: "The IRA was not involved in the brutal killing of Robert McCartney."

While not denying that any of its members were involved, the IRA added that those who were involved "must take responsibility for their own actions which run contrary to republican ideals".

"It has been reported that people are being intimidated or prevented from assisting the McCartney family in their search for truth and justice," it said.

"We wish to make it absolutely clear that no-one should hinder or impede the McCartney family in their search for truth and justice.

"Anyone who can help the family in this should do so."