Call for fresh probe into Caldwell murder after book claim

The 51-year-old father of four died after picking up a lunch-box packed with explosives while working at Caw TA Camp in 2002.

His family has met with unionist politicians in recent days to appeal for a fresh probe. It follows

the publication of a new book, ‘Charlie One’, allegedly written by a former soldier who worked in Londonderry.

The author claims he was part of a surveillance unit that could have tailed the bombers and by extension, saved Mr Caldwell’s life.

Earlier this week, UUP leader Mike Nesbitt met with Mr Caldwell’s daughter and partner, Gillian McFaul and Mavis McFaul and then wrote to Chief Constable George Hamilton asking for the murder case to be reopened.

“Unsurprisingly, Gillian and Mavis feel re-traumatised by these allegations and now find themselves in the worst possible position, in that there is now a suggestion David’s life could have been saved, but no facts to prove or disprove the notion,” stated Mr Nesbitt in his correspondence.

“Gillian contacted Strand Road PSNI and tells me she has since spoken to detectives in the hope of securing some clarity. However, she reports that the officers told her they cannot help unless and until the case is re-opened.

“On that basis, I write to request you re-open the case and otherwise do all you can to ensure the PSNI offers Gillian and Mavis the certainty and consequent comfort they seek.

East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell has also taken up with police the family’s fight for justice.

Noting no one has yet been charged for the murder carried out by the Real IRA , Mr Campbell said: “Having met with the Caldwell family in the past fortnight, and having written to the Chief Constable George Hamilton at that time, I and more importantly, the family, are awaiting a response from the police. I trust there will be a thorough investigation into the allegations and an accurate account given to them of what happened.

“Whilst it can be difficult to substantiate such claims it is vital that the family can have confidence there has been a proper investigation given the allegation that Mr Caldwell’s murder could have been prevented.

“Having endured the loss of their husband and father, the Caldwell family deserve justice and openness regarding this renewed onslaught into their grief.”