soldier F Trial to Include Statements from Soldiers G and H, Judge Rules
DERRY, NORTHERN IRELAND – A key development in the long-awaited trial of Soldier F, accused of shooting civilians during Bloody Sunday in 1972, has seen a judge rule that statements given by two fellow paratroopers – identified as Soldier G and Soldier H – will be admissible as evidence. The decision comes despite the fact that Soldier G has as died and soldier H is unwilling to appear in court to testify.
The controversial case, stemming from the events of January 30, 1972, when british soldiers opened fire on civil rights protesters in Derry‘s Bogside, has been plagued by legal challenges and delays. Fourteen people were killed on that day, and many more were injured.
According to court proceedings last week, the prosecution intends to rely heavily on the statements provided by Soldiers G and H to the Royal Military Police (RMP) in 1972. These statements were also submitted as part of the Widgery Inquiry, the initial examination into the events of Bloody Sunday, conducted in the same year. Prosecution barrister Louis Mably KC argued that the soldiers’ statements represent the only evidence “capable of proving” that Soldier F discharged his rifle at civilians in the Glenfada Park North area.
However, the defense has voiced strong objections to the use of these statements. Defense barrister Mark Mulholland contended that Soldier G’s statements were “riddled with questions of reliability” and contained “changing accounts” of the events of Bloody Sunday. He further raised concerns regarding the circumstances under which the statements were originally taken in 1972, questioning the safeguards and processes in place at the time.
A central argument presented by the defense is that they are significantly disadvantaged by being unable to directly question Soldiers G and H about their recollections. “The defence is devoid of the opportunity to test and challenge” the statements, Mulholland stated in court.
the admissibility of these statements sets a crucial precedent for the trial, which is expected to continue in the coming months. The case remains highly sensitive in Northern Ireland, where bloody Sunday continues to be a deeply emotive and divisive issue. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for the legacy of the Troubles and the pursuit of justice for those affected by the conflict.
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