17/06/2004
Whereabouts of Colombian Three unknown
The whereabouts of three Irishmen cleared of training FARC guerrillas in Colombia is still unknown.
Niall Connolly, Martin McCauley and James Monaghan left their Bogota jail on Wednesday six weeks after being acquitted of training right-wing militants over three years ago.
The three men had been refusing to leave La Modelo prison until Colombian authorities offered guarantees for their safety, however the judge who presided over the case, which is subject to a pending appeal by the prosecution, said they should remain in the country until the appeal is heard.
Speaking from Bogota last night, Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly called on the Irish government to intervene and ensure the men are brought home safely.
“Martin McCauley, Jim Monaghan and Niall Connolly have spent almost three years in prison in Colombia and every day they have lived in danger," the North Belfast MLA said.
"After a protracted legal process they were found innocent of serious charges but are being forced to remain in Colombia pending an appeal, which could be some time away.
“Due to the seriousness of the situation the three men sought leave to return to Ireland during the dangerous period between now and the appeal.
“I am now calling on the Irish government to make representations to the Colombian authorities to get this matter sorted out as soon as possible for the safety of the men.”
It is now understood a private security firm is providing protection until the appeal is heard.
(MB)
Niall Connolly, Martin McCauley and James Monaghan left their Bogota jail on Wednesday six weeks after being acquitted of training right-wing militants over three years ago.
The three men had been refusing to leave La Modelo prison until Colombian authorities offered guarantees for their safety, however the judge who presided over the case, which is subject to a pending appeal by the prosecution, said they should remain in the country until the appeal is heard.
Speaking from Bogota last night, Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly called on the Irish government to intervene and ensure the men are brought home safely.
“Martin McCauley, Jim Monaghan and Niall Connolly have spent almost three years in prison in Colombia and every day they have lived in danger," the North Belfast MLA said.
"After a protracted legal process they were found innocent of serious charges but are being forced to remain in Colombia pending an appeal, which could be some time away.
“Due to the seriousness of the situation the three men sought leave to return to Ireland during the dangerous period between now and the appeal.
“I am now calling on the Irish government to make representations to the Colombian authorities to get this matter sorted out as soon as possible for the safety of the men.”
It is now understood a private security firm is providing protection until the appeal is heard.
(MB)
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