Dissident republican terror group the ‘New IRA’ shot dead journalist Lyra McKee in Derry two weeks ago
The 29-year-old journalist was shot dead in Creggan on Thursday, April 18, while observing a riot in the area after police raided a house in search of explosives.
The New IRA has accepted responsibility for the murder.
Lyra’s murder has caused widespread outrage and the New IRA’s political wing, Saoradh, has been served with a notice to quit its headquarters in Junior McDaid House situated on Chamberlain Street near the Bogside.
PSNI chief constable George Hamilton said on the day of Lyra’s funeral that police had spoken to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) about exploring ways that people could give evidence without revealing their identity.
In a statement, the PSNI have confirmed that witnesses would be given anonymity.
“The person behind the gun gave no thought to the consequences of pulling that trigger or the danger they were putting the whole community in,” a PSNI spokesman said.
“You have been united in your response. Rightly, you have condemned this violence. You have challenged the threats and intimidation that hang over your community.
The suspected New IRA killer who shot dead Lyra McKee in Derry’s Creggan on Thursday, April 18
“People know the gunman and his associates. They know what happened before and after the shots were fired.”
After liaising with the PPS, the PSNI confirmed that, for the purpose of the investigation, anonymity will be provided to witnesses of the murder and the activities of the gunman.
The identity of witnesses will only be revealed to the PPS.
The spokesman added: “As a witness you may not be required to give evidence in court but if you are, we will request the maximum protection.
“This can include options such as anonymity, giving evidence by video link, from behind screens and with voice distortion.
“We have no intention of placing witnesses at risk.
“We need evidence about the gunman and his associates. Not rumour. Not speculation. Not gossip.
“We need first hand evidence or camera footage to identify and bring the gunman and others who were involved in Lyra’s murder to justice.
“We stand right alongside you as part of the community. Together we have an opportunity to bring a meaningful and lasting change.
“Please pick up the phone and share what information you have. The investigation team is happy to meet with you directly or you can pass information to the team by phoning 101.
The PSNI say ‘people saw this young man and his associates’
“Please help us to bring this violence to an end.”
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