Bloody Sunday Investigation

Detectives investigating the events of Bloody Sunday have said they are to re-interview witnesses who gave evidence to the Saville Inquiry.

More than 1,000 witnesses, including local people and former soldiers, are being asked to submit statements as part of the criminal investigation into the events.

Thirteen people were shot dead by the British Army on Sunday, 30 January 1972 at a civil rights march in the city. A 14th man died later from his wounds, while a similar number of people were left injured in the incident.

A series of notices will be placed in local newspapers and other publications to encourage witnesses to come forward again.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Harrison is leading the investigation and he said: "From the outset we said this would be a lengthy and complicated process and we now have the additional resources in place and a clear investigative process to follow.

"For the investigation to be as comprehensive and effective as possible, police are asking for public support in the form of witnesses who gave evidence to the Saville Inquiry to now make statements to detectives.

"Contact has also been made with former military witnesses. During the Saville Inquiry it was ruled that anonymity was granted to any former soldier who gave evidence unless his name was clearly already in the public domain.

"That ruling does not automatically carry over to the current police investigation. Anonymity will be a matter for a future court to consider.

"Police want to assure all who engage with the investigation team that all matters will be treated in the strictest confidence and the support and welfare of witnesses are important considerations.

"It is our intention to conduct these inquiries as quickly as possible."

(JP/CD)