PSNI deny gun used in reckless driving incident

THE PSNI has denied that a gun was waved by officers during an incident in which a car was driven in illegal fashion.

Four officers have been suspended and three others moved to other duties following the release last week of video images of a car being driven recklessly.

In a statement yesterday the PSNI said: “This incident is not sectarian, not political and not racist. Guns were not waved around or produced from any vehicle. We are investigating a clip showing an officer displaying a weapon in an inappropriate manner within a police premises. The investigation focuses on the content of a mobile phone clip and on motoring offences. For investigative reasons, we are unable to comment further at this time.”

Police are also investigating another case of alleged misconduct. One officer has been arrested and questioned about the illegal possession of firearms.

Weapons were found at premises in Aghadowey, Co Derry, last week and in Portglenone, Co Antrim. The officer has been released on bail pending further inquiries.

It is understood the weapons involved are a collection of old military-type guns and are not thought to be terrorist-related.

Sinn Féin Policing Board member Alex Maskey said the allegations must be dealt with as quickly as possible.

“The allegations against these officers are extremely serious, including misuse of a firearm and dangerous and reckless driving,” the West Belfast Assembly member said.

“I have been in touch with senior officers to discuss this matter. People will be watching very closely the results of the ongoing PSNI investigation. For reasons of community confidence and good practice it is vital that this investigation is completed quickly and the results . . . made public.

“If . . . these allegations are true then I am in no doubt that the public will expect those involved to be removed from the PSNI.”

This article appears in the print edition of the Irish Times