Sinn Fein president Mr Gerry Adams has made a complaint to the British Government following a number of raids on the houses of prominent republicans by police investigating a £22 million bank robbery in Northern Ireland.
According to Mr Adams, the raids in north and west Belfast were carried out by "securocrats" intent on destroying the peace process and this had led to widespread anger in the republican community.
Up to five police officers are believed to have been injured in Ballymurphy, west Belfast, after residents clashed with officers who were raiding the homes of a prominent republican. Their Land Rovers were attacked by up to 100 people throwing stones, bottles and other missiles. Two officers were admitted to hospital, one of whom was unconscious, police said.
The home of Belfast republican Mr Eddie Copeland was searched for two hours by officers involved in the hunt to recover the stolen money. During the raid, officers checked every room in Mr Copeland's three-storey home and took away shoes and mobile phones.
Mr Copeland claimed they also opened about 30 Christmas presents.
He said: "They deliberately targeted me because they know I'm a republican in the area. It's politically motivated and they're trying to make out republicans were behind this robbery.
According to The Police Service of Northern Ireland the possible involvement of paramilitaries is a "key line of inquiry". The IRA has denied involvement in the robbery.
A bank spokesman said a plan to recall all the bank's notes was "under very, very serious consideration" but stressed that no decision has been taken.
He added: "Whatever happens, all existing notes will be honoured. Nobody will be out of pocket except the robbers."
The unusual move would be an attempt to take out of circulation all of the stolen notes, and render them worthless. It would involve replacing about £30m of old banknotes.