Chief Constable of the PSNI, Simon Byrne, described the incident as “cowardly and reprehensible” and vowed to bring the culprits to justice. He stated, “We are doing everything possible to protect the citizens of Northern Ireland, but this incident demonstrates that we must remain vigilant against those who attempt to disrupt our peace.” Mr. Caldwell is a seasoned member of the PSNI, having participated in high-profile investigations into attacks by dissident republicans. In recent years, he was key in conducting operations against the New IRA in and around Omagh. The assault on Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell has reverberated throughout Northern Ireland. The dissident republican organisation New IRA has acknowledged to shooting the veteran PSNI officer in Omagh, County Tyrone, on Wednesday evening.
Following the attack on Wednesday evening, Det Ch Insp John Caldwell, a 20-year veteran of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), remains in critical condition in the hospital. Six people between the ages of 22 and 71 remain in police detention for questioning in relation to the shooting.
Chief Constable of the PSNI in Northern Ireland, Simon Byrne, described the attack as “cowardly and reprehensible” and vowed to bring the culprits to justice. Mr. Caldwell was regarded as a crucial figure in numerous high-profile investigations into dissident republican attacks and was instrumental in spearheading operations against the New IRA in and around Omagh.
The typed statement sent by the New IRA on Sunday night admitting responsibility for the shooting has sent shockwaves throughout Northern Ireland, as such acts are relatively uncommon and frequently herald an escalation of violence in the region. It is feared that this episode could be a forerunner to additional unrest or bloodshed.
The PSNI has initiated an inquiry into the attack and is requesting that anyone with information come forward. They have also advised citizens to be calm and informed them that every effort is being made to protect them.
This attack serves as a warning that the peace in Northern Ireland is fragile and that vigilant vigilance is required against those who wish to undermine it. Det Ch Insp John Caldwell will stay in the minds of many as he continues to fight for his life in the hospital.
