24 February 2005
For "Man B" see also: http://cryptome.org/psni-omagh.htm
A. writes:
This is Man "B" in the Omagh Bomb report by Police Ombudsman.
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Irish News, February 24, 2005
By Staff Reporter
A Co Down man appeared in court yesterday charged in connection with a mortar attack on a police station seven years ago.
Gary Jones (37), from Castlekeel in Newry, was accused of using homemade explosives to cause an explosion that was likely to endanger life or property on 21 July 1998.
It is understood the charge relates to a mortar attack on an RUC base in the city's Corry Square.
It was reported at the time of the incident that at least one device was fired from a white Transit van parked at the back of the police station.
No-one was injured in the incident.
At the time, a dissident republican group, Oglaigh na hEireann claimed responsibility for the bombing.
The court heard that when charged with the offence, Jones replied: "Not guilty."
An investigating officer told the court he could connect the accused with the charge.
The court heard that DNA evidence taken from a jumper which was discarded near the scene of the bombing led to Jones' arrest.
Defence solicitor Niall Murphy said his client had repeatedly denied any involvement in the bombing.
Mr Murphy said he thought it was "peculiar" that the charges were only being put to his client now.
"This alleged incident allegedly took place seven years ago. It is very peculiar and the defendant thoroughly denies the charge."
Jones was remanded into custody and will appear before Newry Magistrates Court again on 23 March via video-link.
His solicitor is to lodge an application for bail with the High Court in Belfast.
The accused was arrested by police on Tuesday night in connection with "serious terrorist crime" prior to the 1998 Omagh bomb.