Arrests Made in Probe Regarding Attempted Killing of High-Ranking PSNI Detective
In the town of Omagh, Co Tyrone, a shooting incident at a leisure centre has left the community in shock. The victim, Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) John Caldwell, was seriously injured in the attack that occurred in February 2023, and it has now been revealed that the incident was the work of the dissident republican group, the New IRA.
DCI Caldwell, who retired from the PSNI last December on medical grounds, was off duty at the time of the shooting. The attack took place after he had coached a youth football team, and he was with his young son at the leisure centre.
Two men, aged 45 and 25, have been charged in connection with the attempted murder. They face charges of preparing terrorist acts and perverting the course of justice. One of the men was arrested in west Belfast earlier on Monday, while a property in the area was searched as part of the investigation. A vehicle was also seized during the search. The second man was arrested in the Stewartstown area.
The individuals arrested were taken to the Musgrave Serious Crime Suite for questioning. Despite the arrests, no new information was provided about the condition of DCI Caldwell or the evidence found during the search and seizure.
This incident is not the first time the New IRA has been linked to such attacks. Reports indicate that the group had planned an earlier attack on DCI Caldwell before the shooting took place. Several people have already been arrested and charged in relation to the shooting.
The New IRA's actions have once again highlighted the ongoing threat of dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland. The police continue to investigate the incident and appeal for any information that may help in their inquiries. The community of Omagh, and the wider Northern Ireland, stand united in their support for DCI Caldwell and his family during this difficult time.
The incident at the leisure centre in Omagh, Co Tyrone, involving Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) John Caldwell, has sparked a general-news frenzy, as it was revealed to be the work of the New IRA. Amidst the ongoing investigation, two men have been charged with attempted murder, preparation of terrorist acts, and perverting the course of justice.
The actions of the New IRA in this crime-and-justice matter have underscored the ongoing threat of dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland, emphasizing the importance of continued police investigations and community support for DCI Caldwell and his family.
