Menu
17/06/2004
Whereabouts of Colombian Three unknown
The whereabouts of three Irishmen cleared of training FARC guerrillas in Colombia is still unknown.
Niall Connolly, Martin McCauley and James Monaghan left their Bogota jail on Wednesday six weeks after being acquitted of training right-wing militants over three years ago.
The three men had been refusing to leave La Modelo prison until Colombian authorities offered guarantees for their safety, however the judge who presided over the case, which is subject to a pending appeal by the prosecution, said they should remain in the country until the appeal is heard.
Speaking from Bogota last night, Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly called on the Irish government to intervene and ensure the men are brought home safely.
“Martin McCauley, Jim Monaghan and Niall Connolly have spent almost three years in prison in Colombia and every day they have lived in danger," the North Belfast MLA said.
"After a protracted legal process they were found innocent of serious charges but are being forced to remain in Colombia pending an appeal, which could be some time away.
“Due to the seriousness of the situation the three men sought leave to return to Ireland during the dangerous period between now and the appeal.
“I am now calling on the Irish government to make representations to the Colombian authorities to get this matter sorted out as soon as possible for the safety of the men.”
It is now understood a private security firm is providing protection until the appeal is heard.
(MB)
Niall Connolly, Martin McCauley and James Monaghan left their Bogota jail on Wednesday six weeks after being acquitted of training right-wing militants over three years ago.
The three men had been refusing to leave La Modelo prison until Colombian authorities offered guarantees for their safety, however the judge who presided over the case, which is subject to a pending appeal by the prosecution, said they should remain in the country until the appeal is heard.
Speaking from Bogota last night, Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly called on the Irish government to intervene and ensure the men are brought home safely.
“Martin McCauley, Jim Monaghan and Niall Connolly have spent almost three years in prison in Colombia and every day they have lived in danger," the North Belfast MLA said.
"After a protracted legal process they were found innocent of serious charges but are being forced to remain in Colombia pending an appeal, which could be some time away.
“Due to the seriousness of the situation the three men sought leave to return to Ireland during the dangerous period between now and the appeal.
“I am now calling on the Irish government to make representations to the Colombian authorities to get this matter sorted out as soon as possible for the safety of the men.”
It is now understood a private security firm is providing protection until the appeal is heard.
(MB)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
25 November 2024
SDLP Seeks Views On Proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill
The SDLP has announced the launch of a public consultation of their proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill, describing it as an opportunity to rebalance the economy across the North. The consultation opened online today and will close on Sunday 16th February.
SDLP Seeks Views On Proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill
The SDLP has announced the launch of a public consultation of their proposed Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill, describing it as an opportunity to rebalance the economy across the North. The consultation opened online today and will close on Sunday 16th February.
10 August 2005
Allister calls on EU to pressurise Dublin over Colombia Three
DUP MEP Jim Allister has taken steps to ensure that "the Irish government does not provide sanctuary" for the 'Colombia Three' following their return to the Republic of Ireland last week.
Allister calls on EU to pressurise Dublin over Colombia Three
DUP MEP Jim Allister has taken steps to ensure that "the Irish government does not provide sanctuary" for the 'Colombia Three' following their return to the Republic of Ireland last week.
08 June 2004
Sinn Fein visit highlights plight of Colombia Three
Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly has arrived in Colombia to visit three jailed Irishmen found not guilty of training terrorists. Mr Kelly arrived in Bogota over the weekend to visit James Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley at the invitation of the Bring Them Home Campaign.
Sinn Fein visit highlights plight of Colombia Three
Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly has arrived in Colombia to visit three jailed Irishmen found not guilty of training terrorists. Mr Kelly arrived in Bogota over the weekend to visit James Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley at the invitation of the Bring Them Home Campaign.
14 May 2004
Colombia Three to stay in jail until prosecution appeal heard
Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness has expressed his "deep anger and concern" at the news that the Colombia Three are not to be allowed home until the prosecution appeal of their innocent verdict is heard. James Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley were last month cleared of training Marxist rebels in Colombia.
Colombia Three to stay in jail until prosecution appeal heard
Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness has expressed his "deep anger and concern" at the news that the Colombia Three are not to be allowed home until the prosecution appeal of their innocent verdict is heard. James Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley were last month cleared of training Marxist rebels in Colombia.
05 March 2018
Appeal Issued Following Crash In Co Antrim
Three men have been treated in hospital following a collision in Co Antrim. The two-vehicle crash happened on the Templepatrick Road near Ballyclare at around 6.10am on Saturday, 02 March. One man was hurt, however his injuries are not believed to be life threatening. The road has been re-opened. Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them.
Appeal Issued Following Crash In Co Antrim
Three men have been treated in hospital following a collision in Co Antrim. The two-vehicle crash happened on the Templepatrick Road near Ballyclare at around 6.10am on Saturday, 02 March. One man was hurt, however his injuries are not believed to be life threatening. The road has been re-opened. Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
