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Former Soldiers Won't Be Prosecuted for Bloody Sunday Perjury

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in Northern Ireland will not prosecute eight former soldiers for perjury regarding Bloody Sunday (January 30, 1972).
The decision follows a review that found insufficient admissible evidence to support a prosecution.
Foyle MP Colum Eastwood called the outcome "incredible."
Mickey McKinney, a victim's brother, criticized the delay in justice.
The Bloody Sunday Inquiry remains a separate legal process.

History

Historical Context

The Bloody Sunday Inquiry, initiated in 2000, investigated the 1972 killings of 14 unarmed civil rights protesters by British soldiers in Derry. The inquiry, led by Lord Saville, concluded in 2010, costing approximately £195 million. Despite its findings, the Public Prosecution Service's recent decision not to prosecute eight former soldiers for perjury highlights ongoing tensions and the struggle for justice in Northern Ireland.

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Story summary

The Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in Northern Ireland will not prosecute eight former soldiers for perjury regarding Bloody Sunday (January 30, 1972).
The decision follows a review that found insufficient admissible evidence to support a prosecution.
Foyle MP Colum Eastwood called the outcome "incredible."
Mickey McKinney, a victim's brother, criticized the delay in justice.
The Bloody Sunday Inquiry remains a separate legal process.

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