The Metropolitan Police has delivered a crushing blow to the relatives of IRA bombing victims, formally rejecting their heartfelt plea for a fresh investigation into Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams and his alleged connections to the paramilitary group. This decision comes despite a direct and emotional appeal from three families who lost loved ones in London terror attacks during the Troubles.
Families' Quest for Justice Blocked by Legal Changes
In a devastating response, police chiefs have cited recent legislative changes as the definitive barrier to any new probe. The families—Ihsan Bashir, brother of Inam Bashir killed in the 1996 Docklands bomb; Susan Dodd, daughter of Inspector Stephen Dodd killed at Harrods in 1983; and Sarah Butt, sister-in-law of Paul Butt killed in the 1992 Baltic Exchange bombing—had written to Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley last month. Their request followed the withdrawal of a civil case against Adams after a legal ruling, urging that new information disclosed in court be examined by counter-terrorism specialists.
The Legal Halt: Northern Ireland Troubles Act 2023
In a letter from Kris Wright, the Acting Commander of Counter Terrorism Policing - London, the Met explained that the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 has fundamentally altered the landscape for such investigations. Passed by Parliament to address the legacy of the Troubles and promote reconciliation, this Act established the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR).
Mr Wright stated: "The Act ended ongoing Troubles-related investigations and prevents new criminal investigations into Troubles-related offences by the Police. Sole responsibility for investigating deaths and other harmful conduct forming part of the Troubles, seeking prosecutions as appropriate and for publishing its findings, now falls to the ICRIR."
Consequently, the Met has notified the ICRIR of the families' communications and offered to pass on their details for direct contact, effectively closing the door on any police-led inquiry.
Families' Unwavering Determination for Accountability
The families had insisted in their letter to Commissioner Rowley that the memories of their loved ones must never be forgotten and that a full inquiry into Adams' alleged IRA links was essential. They highlighted evidence heard in open court during the civil trial at the Royal Courts of Justice, which they believe raised serious questions about Adams' long-standing denial of IRA involvement.
Despite this setback, Mr Wright acknowledged their loss and determination, saying: "I recognise the importance you place on establishing the facts through open court proceedings and on ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions."
However, with the Met's hands tied by the 2023 Act, the families' hopes for a new police investigation have been dashed, leaving them to rely on the independent commission for any future pursuit of justice.
