Image of car used in terror shooting of cop released as hunt continues

27 February 2023 , 21:28

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Image of car used in terror shooting of cop released as hunt continues

Images of the car used in the shooting of a senior policeman has been released as the hunt for the gunmen continues.

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell has been fighting for life since he was targeted in front of his young son last Wednesday.

At least 10 shots were fired in the attack in the car park of a sport centre in Omagh, Co Tyrone, where he coaches a youth football team.

Detective Chief Superintendent Eamonn Corrigan said: “I am releasing footage of the car used by the gunmen. This is a blue Ford Fiesta, registration MGZ 6242. It was then fitted with false plates, FRZ 8414, prior to the attack.

The photograph released by the Police Service of Northern Ireland as the investigation goes on (PA)

“My appeal is for anyone who knows where this car was kept in Belfast in the preceding two weeks or anyone who knows where it was stored after it travelled to Omagh.”

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Crimestoppers is also offering a reward worth up to £20,000 for information.

Six men, aged 22, 38, 43, 45, 47 and 71, were being questioned in custody yesterday. Police believe DCI Caldwell was targeted by two gunmen and they are reviewing an unverified claim of responsibility by the New IRA.

A typed message appeared on a wall in Londonderry on Sunday signed by “T O’Neill” – a name previously used by the terror group.

DCI Caldwell’s condition remained critical but stable last night.

Paul Byrne