A man has been charged with the attempted murder of DCI John Caldwell in Co Tyrone last year.
DCI Caldwell was shot a number of times as he loaded footballs into the boot of his car at a sports complex on the Killyclogher Road in Omagh almost a year ago on February 22 2023.
Four days later a claim of responsibility appeared on a gable wall at Central Drive in the Creggan area of Derry.
Read more: PSNI officers’ confidence in intelligence ‘shaken by Caldwell shooting’
The typed letter stated a New IRA active service unit targeted the off-duty policeman “within our chosen kill zone” and warned that the terrorist grouping will be waiting in future for members of the security forces.
A 44-year-old arrested in Dungannon on Thursday has been charged with the attempted murder alongside a number of terrorism offences.
A property was also searched as part of the operation with a number of items being taken away for further examination..
A spokesperson for the PSNI said: “Detectives investigating the attempted murder of Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell in Omagh on 22nd February 2023, have this evening, Friday 9th February, charged a man to court.
“The 44-year-old has been charged with attempted murder, directing terrorism and preparation of terrorist acts.
“He is due to appear before Dungannon Magistrates’ Court on Saturday morning, 10th February.
“As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.”
Police have said the New IRA is the main line of inquiry in the investigation.
A number of people have previously appeared in court charged in connection with Mr Caldwell’s shooting and on charges around the claim of responsibility.
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William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
