Ulster Unionist Party Justice Spokesperson, Doug Beattie MC MLA has commented on the judgement from the coroner today on the 1992 shooting of four terrorists in Clonoe.

Mr. Beattie said.

“It is ludicrous to say that the shooting of 4 heavily armed Terrorists in Clonoe in 1992 was unjustified.  These terrorists had attacked a nearby police station with the intent on murdering those inside be they police officer or civilian.  Having made their escape, still armed, they were confronted by a British military unit covertly operating in the area.

“At that moment a split-second decision needed to be made.  Issuing a warning may well lead to a danger to life to the military unit or to any civilians in the area so for that reason no warning was issued as was allowed for within the rules of engagement, the so-called yellow card.  Having taken the decision to use lethal force, the military personnel would have chosen to eliminate the threat. Considering the terrorists were armed with a variety of weapons, including a 12.7mm DSKH Heavy machine gun and AKM assault rifles, this split-second decision may well have saved lives.

“In the cold light of day, in a warm courtroom, it is easy to criticise the actions of the military and the decisions they made.  However, instead of dead police officers, civilians and lawful military personnel, four PIRA terrorists were killed.  Nobody wants to see loss of life but when we weigh up the intent of the terrorists in what was an organised and murderous action, the end result is, to all right-minded people, justified.”