Two Men Appear In Court Charged With L'Derry Murder

Two men have appeared at L'Derry Magistrates' Court charged with the murder of a 52-year-old man.

Edward Meenan's body was discovered in an alleyway just off Creggan Street in the city at around 2.45am on Sunday 25 November.

He had sustained significant injuries to his head and body.

The investigation into his death has led to a number of arrests.

On Friday 30 November, two men appeared before a judge charged with his murder, in an emotion-filled preliminary hearing.

Sean Rodgers, 31, from the Little Diamond area, and 26 year-old Derek Cresswell, of no fixed abode, were both remanded in custody.

Relatives and friends of Mr Meenan filled the public gallery for the brief hearing and some shouted abuse at the defendants as they sat in the dock.

Extra police officers were on duty, both inside and outside the courtroom.

Meanwhile, the PSNI has made a specific appeal for three people who were in the area around the time of the murder to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell said: "I would like to speak to three people, two men and one woman, who I know were standing on the steps of a shop on Creggan Street at around 2.20am on Sunday.

"They were given a lift from someone driving a dark-coloured, medium-sized car at around 2.30am.

"I would appeal for them to make contact with me as they may be able to provide some vital information."

Two other men, aged 17 and 19, are still being questioned by police after being arrested on suspicion of murder.



(JG)