Inquiry Net Widens Over 'Flawed' Omagh Bomb Investigation

Controversy continues on the flawed police investigation into the horrific Omagh bombing.

The latest move sees the NI Police Ombudsman extending his inquiry beyond direct investigation of the named two officers who admitted lying during the failed Omagh bomb trial.

Now, the watchdog will examine other serious concerns raised by trial judge, Mr Justice Weir last month – to include the conduct of other officers.

During the high profile court action, the judge said the officers had attempted to mislead the court in a "deliberate and calculated deception".

These 'deceptions' were cited last month when the accused, Sean Hoey, was cleared of 58 charges, including the murders of 29 people in the 1998 IRA attack.

PSNI Chief Constable Sir Hugh Orde confirmed the two officers under investigation following the trial were still on duty with the police.

Subsequently however, the police said they had reviewed the positions of the named officers, Det Chief Inspector Philip Marshall and Constable Fiona Cooper and said that one of the officers has been moved to perform other duties in line with a recommendation from the ombudsman.

The NI Policing Board has also pledged an independent review of all investigations into the bombing.

The Omagh bombing was one of the worst atrocities of Northern Ireland's Troubles.

(BMcC)