Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

PSNI/PA Archive/Press Association Images

Six arrested after 'Real IRA' bomb attempt on police doctor

It is believed to be the first time a PSNI medical officer has been targeted by sectarian terror groups in the North.

SIX PEOPLE HAVE been arrested after a bomb was planted at the home of a PSNI doctor in Claudy, Co Derry.

The viable device was discovered in the garden of the GP, who worked as a medical officer for the police service, in the early hours of yesterday morning. It is believed to be the first time a police doctor has been targeted by sectarian groups in the North. The PSNI said they had “no doubt” it was the work of the Real IRA.

The discovery as officers followed up after two cars were set on fire in Derry. Later the same morning, another bomb exploded at the home of a police officer in Claudy.

Four men – three aged 36 and one aged 28 – have been arrested along with two 36-year-old women in the Derry area. They are still being questioned by police this morning.

PSNI Chief Supt Stephen Martin yesterday said he was “in no doubt” that the Real IRA planted the devices. He said the doctor had worked for more than 40 years as a GP for the local community. “This is a man who spends his life helping others,” Chief Supt Martin said.

“The job of an FMO [forensic medical officer] is to assist police with people in their custody and to ensure that the health and wellbeing of those individuals are paramount,” he added. “Right throughout the troubles, doctors of this nature were regarded as neutral, as independent, and were never attacked.”

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
5 Comments
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute seamus moore
    Favourite seamus moore
    Report
    Sep 15th 2011, 8:28 AM

    Sickos the lot of them!

    31
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Seán Ó Briain
    Favourite Seán Ó Briain
    Report
    Sep 15th 2011, 9:23 AM

    not in my name

    20
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Simon Power
    Favourite Simon Power
    Report
    Sep 15th 2011, 9:41 AM

    I am so disgusted. The frustration is that their jail sentences will be a recruitment call for other militant minded "Republicans". I use that word with a heavy loathing as those associated with it seem to have no clue of it’s meaning.

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian Ó Dálaigh
    Favourite Brian Ó Dálaigh
    Report
    Sep 15th 2011, 9:49 AM

    The majority of modern republics are based on the concept of a form of government whereby the population retains control over the government. But not all. A republic is simply a form of government whereby the leaders are elected. It does not necessarily mean that they are democratic. North Korea is a republic after all. It’s just not a democratic republic. It is therefore very possible that you can be a republican while not being a democrat. These people, sick as they are, obviously are republican in that they want the removal of an unelected monarch as head of state – they just refuse to listen to the democratic voice of the population which our republic grants.

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Declan Carroll
    Favourite Declan Carroll
    Report
    Sep 15th 2011, 3:14 PM

    Correct, Simon & Brian. Points people need to remember when it comes to these “republicans”.

    4
Submit a report
Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
Thank you for the feedback
Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
JournalTv
News in 60 seconds