Concerns Over Special Treatment of Loyalist Leader Billy Wright in Prison Revealed in State Papers
Recent State Papers highlight Irish officials’ suspicions regarding the preferential treatment of Billy Wright, leader of the Loyalist Volunteer Force, during his imprisonment. Concerns were raised that this would enhance his influence among loyalist prisoners while undermining moderate leaders. Observations from a mediator indicated Wright’s magnetic personality fostered loyalty among followers, complicating the security landscape in the Maze prison. Ultimately, he was killed by rival INLA inmates shortly after Christmas in 1997.