Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has spoke to the PSNI Chief Constable today to raise the treatment of John Downey at Omagh Court House on Saturday.

The party’s Policing spokesperson said:

“I have spoken to the PSNI Chief Constable today to raise the treatment of John Downey at Omagh Court House on Saturday.

“It’s unacceptable that despite voluntarily presenting himself to the Gardaí for extradition, John Downey was handcuffed and literally manhandled out of Omagh Court House.  

“I also challenged the PSNI’s contention that Mr Downey posed a ‘flight risk’ despite the fact he had met all his previous bail conditions and turned up to all court appearances in Ireland and in London.

“The British authorities publicly stated John Downey was not wanted in connection with any offence.

“That assertion was tested in the courts and he was subsequently released. That judgement should be respected by the British authorities.”