Former RUC Officer Interrogated in South Africa Regarding Historical Bomb Attack
John Weir, a former RUC officer, is being questioned in South Africa about a 1972 bomb attack in Belturbet, which killed two teenagers. He faces prosecution in Northern Ireland for murder and conspiracy while denying all allegations. The case reflects ongoing investigations into the activities of the Glenanne Gang and broader issues of accountability regarding the Troubles in Ireland.
A former officer of the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) is currently under scrutiny in South Africa regarding a bomb attack in Belturbet, County Cavan, which tragically resulted in the deaths of two teenagers more than five decades ago. John Weir, who is facing murder charges in Northern Ireland, disclosed that he has been questioned in a South African court in relation to this incident as part of a Garda investigation. Geraldine O’Reilly and Patrick Stanley were killed in December 1972 when a car bomb exploded on the main street of the town.
The Gardaí revealed in 2022 that they had discovered new leads into the bombing that occurred on the same day as other loyalist bombings in Clones and Pettigo. Additionally, it has come to light that the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) plans to charge Mr. Weir for murder, conspiracy to murder, and an unsuccessful attack across the border. Mr. Weir has asserted that he intends to contest these charges vigorously and has denied all allegations against him.
Allegedly a member of the Glenanne Gang, which was comprised of individuals from the RUC, UDR, and UVF, Mr. Weir stated that the group was responsible for numerous murders, largely targeting innocent Catholics. The activities of this gang are undergoing investigations led by the Police Ombudsman and the Kenova investigation team, specifically under Operation Denton. Mr. Weir has revealed that he had appeared before a magistrate’s court in Cape Town following a request from the Gardaí regarding the Belturbet bombing.
During the court proceedings, Mr. Weir emphasized his lack of involvement in the Belturbet bombing and accused the investigating officers of attempting to discredit him. He plans to cooperate with Operation Denton investigators, expressing his hope that all parties will ultimately learn the truth to foster peace. He remarked on his willingness to divulge all necessary information to help promote understanding and reconciliation.
Although the PPS and the Police Ombudsman have not disclosed the number of charges against Mr. Weir, it is reported that the Ombudsman contacted the families of other victims connected to the Glenanne Gang’s activities. In particular, representatives for Elizabeth McDonald, who was murdered along with Gerald McGleenan in 1976, were reached out to. Mr. Weir vehemently denied any ties to these incidents and expressed skepticism over the current actions taken by law enforcement.
Moreover, Mr. Weir theorized a connection between the recent inquiries and the independent investigations into historical injustices. He asserted that in the past, there was likely collusion between the British and Irish authorities concerning information about past bombings. He recounted that the outcome of an attack in Castleblaney could have been thwarted with proper cooperation between force agencies.
Originally from County Monaghan, Mr. Weir served in the RUC’s Special Patrol Group. He was previously involved in high-profile investigations regarding bombings in Dublin and Monaghan and has previously been convicted for his role in a murder. After his release, he relocated to Africa. Kevin Winters, a representative of KRW Law, has called for clarifications on the charges against Mr. Weir and highlighted concerns about the failure of communication with victims’ families.
The ongoing legal matters involving John Weir underscore the complexities surrounding historical events from the Troubles in Ireland. The inquiries into the Belturbet bombing and other related incidents continue to unfold as law enforcement agencies seek to provide closure for the victims’ families. Mr. Weir’s assertions of innocence and his willingness to cooperate with investigations highlight the enduring quest for truth and reconciliation in the region. These developments raise important questions about justice, accountability, and the legacy of past violence that still impacts communities today.
Original Source: www.irishnews.com
