DCI Caldwell Investigation: Six Suspects Continue To Be Questioned

Detectives from the PSNI's Major Investigation Team are continuing to question six suspects in connection with the attempted murder of Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell.

The off-duty police officer was shot a number of times by two gunmen shortly after 8pm on Wednesday 22 February at a sports complex on Killyclogher Road in Omagh.

He remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

Three men aged 38, 45 and 47 were arrested under the Terrorism Act in Omagh and Coalisland on Thursday 23 February. A 22 year old man was arrested in Coalisland the following day, whilst a 43 year old man was arrested in Stewartstown on Friday 24 February and a 71 year old man in Omagh on Saturday.

Assistant Chief Constable for Crime Department Mark McEwan said: "John is a highly respected senior investigating officer who dedicates himself to the service of others, both as police officer and as an active member of the Omagh community.

"The attack on John, when he was accompanied by his young son, shows the absolute callousness of those responsible. It is utterly disgusting that the gunmen carried out this attempted murder in front of crowds of adults and children. The shots, fired from close range in a busy sports training area, could quite easily have killed or seriously injured anyone present at the time of the shooting.

"We recognise the huge shock and trauma this attack has caused in the community in Omagh. I know this is not what they want to see happening in their town."

Assistant Chief Constable Mark McEwan added: "I would appeal to anyone with information to bring it to police. Our main line of enquiry is that violent dissident republicans carried out this vile attack and within that a primary focus is on the New IRA.

"Detectives want to hear from anyone who was in the area or who witnessed what happened. Please get in touch with any information that could help with our investigation.

"Likewise, if you have captured dash-cam or mobile footage, please contact officers on 101 quoting reference number 1831 of 22/02/23.

"I would also ask anyone with information to phone 101 or if you would prefer to remain anonymous contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Information, including photos, CCTV and dash-cam footage, can also be provided to police through the Major Incident Public Portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/PSNI23S03-PO1.