UPDATE: A significant investigation by the Police Ombudsman has revealed that police failings occurred in the cases of murdered RUC constables, but crucially, it was unable to definitively link weapons returned to paramilitaries to their deaths. The findings, released earlier today, directly impact the families of Constables Harold Beckett and Gary Meyer, who were murdered on June 30, 1990, and October 4, 1989 respectively.
The inquiry, led by Police Ombudsman Marie Anderson, examined two referrals from the PSNI and public complaints dating back to 2015. The investigation focused on allegations that the Weapons and Explosives Research Centre (WERC), part of RUC Special Branch, tested and returned live weapons to paramilitary groups, which could have been used in the murders of the two officers.
In a troubling disclosure, statements from a former police officer and a civilian employee of WERC suggested that operational guns were returned to paramilitaries. These weapons are alleged to have been involved in the murders of Constables Beckett and Meyer, prompting the Ombudsman to take action. The investigation was initiated following referrals made by Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and family members of the deceased.
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Anderson’s report found that the specific weapons mentioned were not those used in the murders. She stated,
“My investigation has established that the weapons referred to in the statements by the former police officer and former WERC employee were not those used in the murders of Constable Beckett and Constable Meyer.”
However, she noted that it remains impossible to conclude definitively whether WERC had any broader involvement with the weapons utilized in these tragic events.
Following the revelations, Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton publicly apologized to the families of Constable Beckett, Constable Meyer, and murder victim James Henry Babington, acknowledging the profound pain these families have endured due to the actions of terrorists. Singleton described today as “yet another difficult day” for those affected, emphasizing that the PSNI recognizes the severe failings in the handling of these cases.
“Our first thoughts today are with the families who have had to live with the devastating loss of their loved ones,” Singleton added. He reiterated the PSNI’s commitment to transparency and accountability moving forward.
The Ombudsman’s report, while clearing specific allegations about weapon use, raises critical questions about police operations and oversight during a turbulent period in Northern Ireland’s history. The emotional toll on the families involved remains significant, as they continue to seek answers and justice for their loved ones.
As the situation develops, it is essential for the PSNI and other authorities to address these findings transparently. The families impacted await further clarity and accountability regarding the tragic events that have shaped their lives.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and as more details emerge about the implications of the Ombudsman’s findings.
