Urgent Update: New IRA Planned Attack on PSNI Detective Uncovered

UPDATE: Authorities have uncovered shocking details of a failed assassination plot against Detective John Caldwell by the New IRA, just weeks before he was critically injured in a gun attack. This revelation surfaced during a hearing at Dungannon Magistrates’ Court where two men, Caoimhin Murphy (25) and Liam Robinson (45), faced serious charges linked to the attempted murder of the senior police officer in Omagh, Co Tyrone on February 22, 2023.

The court learned that Caldwell was shot multiple times while off-duty and with his young son, following a youth football coaching session. The attack has been claimed by the New IRA, a dissident republican group. Since the incident, Caldwell has retired from the police force on medical grounds.

During today’s proceedings, both defendants appeared via videolink from Musgrave Street police station in Belfast. They face charges including preparation of terrorist attacks and perverting the course of justice. Neither man responded when asked if they understood the charges against them.

A detective sergeant testified that evidence connects both men to the offenses, highlighting a complex investigation involving phone records and CCTV footage. The prosecution outlined the chilling details of an earlier failed attack on Caldwell that occurred on February 1, 2023, where vehicles linked to the New IRA were observed near his usual location.

The prosecution’s barrister stated, “When the original individuals were charged, that was subsequent to the attempt on DCI Caldwell on February 22. Investigations continued, revealing that a prior attempt took place on February 1.”

It was revealed that the first attempt involved a Volkswagen and an Audi, while the later attack utilized two Ford Fiestas. Murphy is accused of being involved in both incidents, allegedly moving vehicles and assisting in the destruction of evidence. Robinson is similarly implicated, with claims he helped recover a vehicle involved in the initial plot.

The detective sergeant detailed the investigation, noting that the shooting was believed to be coordinated by multiple active service units within the New IRA, operating from both Belfast and Tyrone. On the night of the shooting, Caldwell arrived at the sports complex earlier than expected, foiling the attackers’ plans, as he was not shot until 8:00 PM, an hour and a half after the anticipated time.

As the case unfolds, defense attorneys argue the evidence is circumstantial. Murphy’s solicitor contended there is “not one iota” of surveillance linking his client to the vehicles used, while Robinson’s defense stated he was in Coalisland at the time of the attack and is not accused of participating in the shooting.

District Judge Rafferty determined there was sufficient evidence linking both defendants to the charges and denied bail for Robinson, citing a “trusted role” within the IRA. The detective sergeant warned that the threat to Caldwell remains “real and imminent,” with his name appearing on a bonfire in the Creggan estate, indicating he continues to be a target.

Both men were remanded in custody, with Robinson set to appear again on September 2 and Murphy on August 20 for a bail application.

This developing story highlights the ongoing threat posed by dissident republican groups in Northern Ireland, raising serious concerns about public safety and the impact on law enforcement personnel. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation.