ARMAGH PHONE BOX MAY HOLD CLUE TO BOMB CODE
Armagh phone box may hold clue to bomb code
By Peter McVerry
POLICE investigating the Omagh bombing have removed a roadside phone box from south Armagh for forensic examination.
It is understood at least one coded warning from the Real IRA was made from the phone box.
The phone box is on the main Newry to Crossmaglen road in a spot known locally as McGeough's corner.
An RUC spokeswoman refused to comment.
"We are pursuing many aspects of this investigation and will not comment on one specific aspect in case we jeopardise the investigation."
Five men arrested on Monday in connection with the bombing were still being held today.
Among them Shane Mackey (19), son of Omagh councillor and leading 32-County Sovereignty Commitee member Francie Mackey.
Mr Mackey has 'categorically rejected' accusations that the 32-County Sovereignty Committee was involved in the atrocity.
Anti-terrorist officers from the Metropolitian Police have been drafted in to assist in the RUC.
The officers, who arrive in the province today, will assist a special task force.
The London officers, who have substantial experience in similar investigations, will help sift through rubble for forensic evidence.
The additional help was welcomed by RUC chief constable Ronnie Flanagan and the officer leading the investigation deputy assistant chief constable for crime, Eric Anderson.
Mr Anderson said: "We are facing an enormous task requiring meticulous examination of literally tons of rubble."
By Peter McVerry
POLICE investigating the Omagh bombing have removed a roadside phone box from south Armagh for forensic examination.
It is understood at least one coded warning from the Real IRA was made from the phone box.
The phone box is on the main Newry to Crossmaglen road in a spot known locally as McGeough's corner.
An RUC spokeswoman refused to comment.
"We are pursuing many aspects of this investigation and will not comment on one specific aspect in case we jeopardise the investigation."
Five men arrested on Monday in connection with the bombing were still being held today.
Among them Shane Mackey (19), son of Omagh councillor and leading 32-County Sovereignty Commitee member Francie Mackey.
Mr Mackey has 'categorically rejected' accusations that the 32-County Sovereignty Committee was involved in the atrocity.
Anti-terrorist officers from the Metropolitian Police have been drafted in to assist in the RUC.
The officers, who arrive in the province today, will assist a special task force.
The London officers, who have substantial experience in similar investigations, will help sift through rubble for forensic evidence.
The additional help was welcomed by RUC chief constable Ronnie Flanagan and the officer leading the investigation deputy assistant chief constable for crime, Eric Anderson.
Mr Anderson said: "We are facing an enormous task requiring meticulous examination of literally tons of rubble."
Further Information
Publisher: BELFAST TELEGRAPH
Ref: BT/0703
Published Date: 19-Aug-98
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