DCI John Caldwell fighting for his life in hospital after New IRA murder bid
A typed statement has appeared on a wall in Derry signed by ‘T O’Neill’, the name used by the dissident republican group in the past.
It says: “The Irish Republican Army claim responsibility for the military operation targeting senior Crown Force member John Caldwell.
“An active service unit of the IRA were in position to target the enemy within our chosen kill zone with other armed volunteers giving cover.
“All volunteers returned safely to base.
“Irish Republican Army intelligence are now in possession of security information regarding the out of bounds movement of Crown Force personnel.
“We would say this, you still have to try and live a normal life day-to-day, one of these days the IRA will be waiting. T O’Neill.”
The dissident organisation has previously issued statements by posting them on walls in public areas.
The statement was later carried on social media, including an account that has carried previous republican statements.
DCI Caldwell has a high public profile with the PSNI’s Major Investigation Team tackling criminal and terrorist gangs.
The shooting of such a senior officer has sent shockwaves across the police force and left recruits fearful for their security.
The detective remains critically ill and sedated in Derry’s Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry.
DCI Caldwell was shot multiple times as he was loading balls into the back of his car by two masked gunmen who appeared out of the shadows.
The New IRA statement posted on a wall in Derry
There has been widespread condemnation of the murder attempt.
The five main party leaders denounced the dissident group and in a show of solidarity on Friday, Michelle O’Neill, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, Stephen Farry, Doug Beattie and Colum Eastwood held a joint press conference with PSNI Chief Constable Simon Byrne.
Six men – ranging in age from 22 to 71 – are still being questioned at Musgrave Serious Crime Suite in Belfast.
MIT detectives have been granted an extension to quiz all six suspects up to 10 pm on Tuesday, February 28.
By then detectives will have to either charge or release the suspects unconditionally.
Suspects arrested under the Terrorism Act cannot be released on bail.
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