BREAKING: Two men have been arrested in connection with the attempted murder of retired PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell in Omagh, Co Tyrone. The arrests were made on November 18, 2023, in the Ardboe area, with both suspects aged 37 and 73 detained under the Terrorism Act.
Authorities confirmed that the men have been taken to the Musgrave Serious Crime Suite for questioning, as detectives continue to pursue leads in this high-profile case. Caldwell was critically injured in a dissident gun attack in February 2023, shot multiple times in front of his young son at a sports complex.
The attack, attributed to a collaboration between dissident republicans and organized crime, was claimed by the New IRA just days after it occurred. A letter from the group stated that Caldwell had been targeted “within our chosen kill zone,” underscoring the grave nature of the incident.
Caldwell, who retired from the PSNI on medical grounds last December, was awarded the King’s Police Medal for his service just a month before the attack. Reflecting on his recovery, he expressed gratitude for the support he received: “I’m feeling very happy, feel very privileged… Thanks to the medical teams and support from family and friends.”
Several individuals have previously faced charges related to the shooting, but the recent arrests mark a significant development in the ongoing investigation. Detectives are working diligently to unravel the circumstances surrounding Caldwell’s attack, emphasizing the seriousness of the threats posed by dissident groups in the region.
As this situation unfolds, officials continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The investigation remains active, and further updates are expected in the coming days.
Stay tuned for the latest developments on this critical story as authorities work to bring justice for John Caldwell and enhance public safety in the community.
