PSNI report man from Ian Ogle UVF murder probe for drugs offences

Ian Ogle was beaten and stabbed to death by a UVF in east Belfast in January. His son and daughter said they had been suffering extended intimidation by the paramilitary organisation.

Police said today that they had reported a 28-year-old man who was previously arrested in relation to the murder to the Public Prosecution Service. The man has been reported for possession and cultivation of a class B controlled drugs.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter McKenna said: “I want to reassure the public that we will continue to target those involved in any form of criminality detected during the course of this investigation.

“I am continuing to appeal for witnesses to this horrific murder. Ian Ogle was subjected to a brutal attack and his family deserve justice. Anyone with information that could assist my investigation is asked to please get in touch with the investigation team by calling 101 quoting reference 1303 27/1/19. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime”.

A Sinn Féin spokesman said: “An application was submitted for Sunday’s commemoration in Rasharkin to commemorate Gerard Casey who was murdered by a unionist death squad in collusion with the British State.

“The parade was deemed non-contentious by the Parades Commission and the PSNI were in attendance.

“The event is clearly listed on the Parades Commission website so Jim Allister should check his facts before making unfounded allegations.”