An investigation has been launched into claims that security forces in Northern Ireland riddled a pub with bullets during a bungled surveillance operation.

Three men dressed in combat gear and balaclavas allegedly fired on bar staff at the Derryhirk Inn, near Lurgan, Co Armagh, on Friday night. Police say they opened fire while investigating suspicious activity.

The Independent Commission for Police Complaints was yesterday brought in to investigate the incident, an RUC spokesman confirmed.

Bar owner Patsy Mulholland said the men, later identified by the RUC as members of the security forces, chased his staff across the car park and burst into the crowded bar, threatening to shoot.