06/01/2020

PSNI Officer Confronted By Armed Man

A serving PSNI officer was confronted by a masked male aiming a shotgun at him outside his Co Fermanagh home late last week.

The incident on Thursday 02 January is being investigated as a failed attempt to kill an off-duty police officer.

The male officer was at home in the Rosscah/Crevenish Road area of Kells at around 2am on Thursday morning when he noticed movement outside his property. Upon opening his front door to investigate, he was confronted by a masked male aiming a shotgun at him.

The suspect, who is described as being dressed entirely in black, then made off on foot across nearby fields close to the local football club.

An investigation is ongoing, with a primary line of enquiry that organised criminal elements may be responsible.

Detective Chief Inspector Julie Mullan said: "There are no words to describe those who would creep through the dark of night with nothing but death and destruction on their minds. Their actions stand in stark contrast to those officers, including their intended target, who everyday police our communities with dignity, respect and courtesy.

"Just this week Neighbourhood Policing Team and Local Policing Team officers across Fermanagh and Northern Ireland were out in their communities attending events, giving back to their community and looking forward to continuing to work with them for another year. Never could we have imagined that this is what the New Year would bring."

Ulster Unionist MLA and Policing Spokesperson Alan Chambers condemned the murder bid as "disgusting".

He said: "As a member of the Policing Board I have seen at firsthand how dedicated our police officers are and how they selflessly carry out their duties in serving and protecting the entire community.

"This incident is a stark and unwelcome reminder of the dangers faced by our police officers both on and off duty."

Police have appealed for help from the people of Kesh and further afield in identifying the would-be killer.

Detective Chief Inspector Mullan said: "Were you in the Rosscah/Crevenish Road area early that morning? Did you see anyone or anything you felt was suspicious? Did you capture dashcam footage? Do you have any information about this crime? No matter how small or insignificant it may seem, please get in touch. The investigation team can be contacted by calling 101, quoting reference 126 02/01/20."

Those who prefer to provide details anonymously can do so by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/CM)

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