“I have no doubt that the people who were detained or killed during the course…… of the battles…. were armed insurgents who had willingly and deliberately participated in an armed ambush and attack on people.
Aside from the deceased and detainees who were taken to the field, the Inquiry report also provides a breakdown of the circumstances of each death or injury which culminated in the findings. The circumstances of each person’s death differ, and in some cases relatives distance their family member from the battle and claim they were innocent bystanders. However, the Chair was unequivocal on this point, stating:
“despite there having been a number of unarmed and non-involved civilians present near the scene and in the vicinity of the…. Battle…. I am quite sure from all the evidence I have heard, seen and read that none of these civilians were inadvertently caught up in the fighting or had been fired at or injured in any way by people that day”.
Furthermore, regarding your allegations, he stated:
“I have no doubt that both xxx [his cousin] were both present at the scene as willing and active participants in the armed ambush… on ”.
I have therefore decided, in consultation with the Director of Service Prosecutions, who is responsible for the prosecution of members of people, to discontinue any further enquiries as there are no criminal allegations to be investigated.
Should you wish to contact me about these matters please feel free to do so by e-mail or in writing to the above address. If you would like to talk on the telephone then please be aware the telephone number shown in this letter will be answered by an English speaking person and so you may need an interpreter.
A copy of this letter has been provided to your legal representatives in the United Kingdom, Public Interest Lawyers Limited.