Stories from Belfast · United Kingdom

A coroner in Belfast will deliver findings from an inquest into the deaths of five people shot by British soldiers in West Belfast over 50 years ago. The deceased were Margaret Gargan, aged 13, David McAfferty, aged 15, John Doogle, aged 16, Patrick Butler, a father of six, and Noel Fitzpatrick, a Catholic priest. An inquest at the time of the deaths recorded an open verdict, prompting this fresh inquiry. The deceased include 13-year-old Margaret Gargan, 15-year-old David McCafferty, 16-year-old John Doogle, Patrick Butler, and Father Noel Fitzpatrick. The report follows descriptions of prison conditions in the country as a national scandal. The incident occurred when soldiers were encamped in a timber yard near Balamurphy.

Alliance Party Member of Parliament for Lagan Valley announced the defeat of a proposed mandatory digital ID in the outgoing session of Parliament. The MP stated that constituents in Lagan Valley and across Northern Ireland did not want the mandate.

NAC Breda filed a formal protest following a 6-0 loss to Goha and Diggles in the Northern Irish first division on April 15. The club alleges the opposing team used player Dean James irregularly.

The Novo IRA has issued threats to target the private residences of police officers in Northern Ireland. The group stated they will specifically aim at officers' homes as part of their activities.

The Antrim Hurling Squad has issued an ultimatum to its county board. The squad is seeking clarity regarding the managerial position of David Fitzgerald. The group is also seeking a resolution concerning the allocation of training gear.

A group calling itself the New IRA has claimed responsibility for a Saturday attack in Northern Ireland. One 33-year-old man, identified as Timothy B. from the Belfast suburbs, has been arrested in connection with the incident. No injuries were reported following the explosion. Police are currently conducting searches at multiple locations in Belfast. The suspect's specific involvement in the attack remains unknown. The group has also issued threats to target the homes of police officers. A 21-year-old suspect, who was allegedly involved in a 2024 concert attack attempt, is being investigated. The attack follows recent security concerns in the region. Police have arrested a 66-year-old man regarding the attack. The source did not provide further details on the extent of the damage or casualties. The group reportedly seeks the independence of the United Kingdom through violence.

At least 29 people were killed and at least 80 people were injured in northeastern Ireland. At least 29 people have died in northeastern Ireland, according to the latest reports. The BBC reported the death toll as the latest update on the situation.

Hundreds of former and potentially current IRA members have been granted amnesty. This is contrasted with the prosecution of soldiers. A Northern Ireland Troubles bill is being criticized for being vindictive and not allowing the past to rest. TalkRADIO reported that former IRA members were not prosecuted as a result of a specific event, while soldiers involved faced prosecution. The speaker expresses strong disapproval of this disparity, viewing it as a profound disrespect towards those who protect societal values.

A delivery driver's vehicle was hijacked on Saturday evening by the New IRA paramilitary group. A gas cylinder was placed in the vehicle's boot, resulting in an explosion. Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton of the Police Service of Northern Ireland stated that no residents were harmed in the explosion. Police personnel evacuated nearby homes to protect the community during the incident. The Northern Ireland Secretary, Hilary Burns, reported the details of the incident. The attack was condemned by all parties at Westminster and drew anger from the DUP in the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Prime Minister and political leaders from across the spectrum have condemned the attack.

Detectives in Belfast are investigating an explosion outside a police station as an attempted murder. Police in Northern Ireland arrested a 66-year-old man suspected of involvement in an attack last Sunday in a Belfast suburb. The incident involved a shotgun being fired at a pension provider's office and a courthouse. Additionally, a tree exploded near a police station during the events. An 89-year-old man is also being investigated for using a shotgun at the pension provider before taking a taxi to the courthouse, where he left the weapon. Police have not yet stated a motive for the actions. Police arrested a man in Belfast in connection with a bomb attack targeting a police station last Saturday. A group calling itself the 'New IRA' claimed responsibility for the attack, stating they want Great Britain to cede Northern Ireland.