LAST UPDATE | 1 Mar 2023
POLICE INVESTIGATING THE attempted murder of Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell in Northern Ireland have made two further arrests.
The detective is in a critical but stable condition in hospital after he was shot a number of times in Omagh, Co Tyrone, a week ago.
A 33-year-old man was arrested in Omagh and a 57-year-old man in Belfast today.
Both were arrested under the Terrorism Act and taken to Musgrave Crime Suite in Belfast for questioning. They remain in custody.
Two other men, aged 47 and 71, were previously arrested and had remained in custody today.
The 71-year-old man has been released following questioning. The 47-year-old man remains in police custody.
Detective Chief Superintendent Eamonn Corrigan said: “Today, 1 March, is one week on since this horrific attack took place. It was last Wednesday night, around 8pm, that John was shot by two gunmen, as he packed up after coaching a youth football team.
“John was shot multiple times and, when he fell to the ground, the gunmen continued to fire at him. This cowardly attempt to take a life took place in the midst of terrified children and parents, and, disturbingly, in front of John’s young son. Any number of adults or children could easily have been seriously injured or killed.”
“We will work relentlessly to bring those responsible to justice and tonight our officers have revisited the scene. We’ve been handing out appeal leaflets. We’ve been speaking with pedestrians, drivers and passengers, and have carried out extensive house-to-house enquiries.
“A 33-year-old man was arrested in Omagh and a 57-year-old man was arrested in Belfast earlier today. Both were arrested under the Terrorism Act and taken to Musgrave Serious Crime Suite for questioning.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Corrigan added: “John remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition. The past week has been sheer torment for John’s loving family, and indeed his extensive circle of friends and colleagues.
“I am asking you to stop and imagine, for just one second, how you would feel if this happened to your loved one. And I’m asking you to search your conscience and come forward with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.”
Police believe the dissident group the New IRA carried out the attack.
Earlier this week, the PSNI released CCTV footage of the car used by the gunmen.
This is a blue Ford Fiesta, registration number MGZ 6242.
It was fitted with false plates, FRZ 8414, prior to the attack.
The CCTV footage shows the car leaving the sports complex after the shooting.
Independent charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of £20,000 for key information that could aid the investigation.
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