Understand
Twenty-five years on, the family of murdered journalist Martin O'Hagan still seek answers
Overview
Twenty-five years after Sunday World investigative reporter Martin O'Hagan was shot dead in Lurgan, County Armagh, no one has ever been convicted of his murder. The killing, claimed by the Red Hand Defenders, followed his extensive exposure of Northern Ireland paramilitaries and drug dealers. His family and former colleagues have criticized the lack of progress and government action, with his brother Fintan expressing belief that the perpetrators may have been British agents. The Police Ombudsman's office has stated that completing a public statement on the case is an early priority.
Key points
- Martin O'Hagan was shot dead in Lurgan, County Armagh, 25 years ago after reporting on paramilitaries and drug dealers for the Sunday World.
- No one has ever been convicted for the murder, despite widespread condemnation and initial police pledges.
- Fintan O'Hagan, the victim's brother, believes the state was involved and that the killers may have been British agents.
- Police Ombudsman Jacqui Durkin is reviewing a draft public statement regarding the case as an early priority.
- Colleagues have contrasted the lack of convictions in O'Hagan's case with the rapid legislative and investigative response following the murder of journalist Veronica Guerin in Dublin.