Family in appeal for no revenge

Mr Mongan's niece, left, read out the family statement

The family of John Mongan, who was murdered in west Belfast earlier this month, have said they do not want any revenge attacks.

In their first public statement since his killing, which was read out by Mr Mongan's niece, the family said he was not involved in any feud.

Mr Mongan's widow gave birth to their son just hours after he was attacked in front of her and their children.

Three people have appeared in court charged with his murder.

The family statement added: "We do not want any other family to go through what our family has suffered over this past couple of weeks.

"All we want for John is that those who murdered him be brought to justice through the legal system.

"We would call on anyone who has any information that might be helpful to please pass it on to the PSNI."

Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams accompanied the family as they read out their statement.

Mr Mongan, 30, a member of the Travelling community, was attacked with hatchets and machetes at his home in Fallswater Street on 7 February.