Three Men Arrested and Released in 1994 Murder of Police Officer John Haggan

Three men in their 50s were arrested and released in connection with the 1994 murder of police officer John Haggan in north Belfast. Constable Haggan, 33, was shot while off-duty with his pregnant wife and friends at Dunmore Greyhound Stadium. The men were arrested on suspicion of murder and membership of a proscribed organization, but were later released following questioning.

The arrests were made by the PSNI's Legacy Investigation Branch at addresses in Belfast and the Newtownabbey area under the Terrorism Act. Another 50-year-old man was previously arrested and released in April in relation to the case. The police say their inquiry into the murder of John Haggan continues.

Why this matters: The arrest and release of suspects nearly 30 years after the murder of a police officer highlights the ongoing challenges in solving legacy cases from The Troubles in Northern Ireland. It also emphasizes the importance of continuing to pursue justice for victims and their families, even decades later.

A senior detective from the PSNI's Legacy Branch made a fresh appeal for information on April 10, 2023, stating that Haggan was "murdered in cold blood for no other reason than being a police officer." The police are appealing for anyone who was at Dunmore Greyhound Stadium on the evening of the murder, either before or after, to come forward with any information they may have.

The Public Prosecution Service has been investigating fifteen former soldiers and an alleged former member of the IRA in relation to this case. "The inquiry into Constable Haggan's murder is ongoing," said a PSNI spokesperson. "We remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice and providing answers for his family."

Key Takeaways

• 3 men arrested, released over 1994 murder of NI police officer John Haggan
• Haggan, 33, shot while off-duty with pregnant wife and friends at greyhound stadium
• Arrests made under Terrorism Act, police appeal for info from witnesses
• Ongoing investigation, 15 ex-soldiers and alleged IRA member also probed
• Police committed to bringing Haggan's killers to justice and providing answers