IN/0508

Omagh bombers will not be charged'
By Sharon O'Neill

THE RUC has uncovered new evidence linking those suspected of the Omagh bombing to other attacks, the Irish News has learned.
But senior security sources have admitted it was unlikely that the Real IRA unit responsible would ever be charged with the 1998 murders.
The car-bomb abandoned in Omagh killed 29 people including a woman pregnant with twins and injured countless others.
Despite a massive investigation on both sides of the border only one man is to face trial in connection with the blast, which sparked world-wide outrage.
But as the third anniversary of the bombing approaches it has emerged that a major review of the RUC investigation in a "no stone left unturned" hunt for the killers, has unearthed new leads.
Senior security sources last night revealed that the Real IRA unit - known to both Garda and the RUC - have been linked to other incidents.
"It could well be we could ultimately charge them but maybe with more general offences such as conspiracy to cause explosions rather than necessarily the 15th August, 1998," the source said.
It is understood relatives have been fully updated on progress in the investigation and the review, which was launched last year.
A special team of detectives including those involved in the Jill Dando murder hunt, were drafted in to re-examine the case.
During the original investigation near 80 suspects were questioned on both sides of the border. More than 2,000 people were interviewed and over 3,000 statements taken by the police.
While it is generally known who master-minded the attack, hard evidence secure convictions has eluded both the Garda and RUC.
Last night Michael Gallagher, whose 21-year-old son Adrian was killed in the explosion, said he remained hopeful the the actual bombers would be caught.
Mr Gallagher described as "interesting the latest development in the case. I also confirmed that relatives would meet Northern Ireland Secretary John Reid next week.
"It will be interesting to see what transpires. In the meantime the families remain resolute in their search for justice in what happened at Omagh," said Mr Gallagher.
Mr Gallagher last night renewed his appeal for help to raise the £1 million required to mount a civil action against those suspected of the bombing.
Donations can be made to any Bank of Ireland or alternatively by credit card on 0870 907 2000.
Meanwhile, gardai were last night still questioning five men in connection with a crackdown on suspected dissident republicans.