Stakeknife probe in witness appeal as Scappaticci bailed
A MAN widely named as the Army’s notorious IRA agent Stakeknife has been released on bail.
Detectives from Operation Kenova have been questioning Freddie Scappaticci from west Belfast about offences including murder and abduction since Tuesday.
Mr Scappaticci has always strongly denied claims that he is Stakeknife, a high-ranking military mole who reputedly led the republican organisation’s ‘nutting squad’, the internal security unit that interrogated and murdered suspected spies during the Troubles.
A team of independent detectives probing claims of murder, kidnap and torture detained the 72-year-old at an undisclosed location on Tuesday, a statement from Operation Kenova said.
Bedfordshire Police Chief Constable Jon Boutcher is leading
Released: Freddie Scappaticci
the investigation. He said: “This arrest was a significant step in what continues to be an incredibly complex and wide-ranging investigation.
“My team is continuing to speak with witnesses and victims’ families and we are exploring a huge number of lines of enquiry.”
He said the suspect was released on bail to return to police custody at a date in the near future.
Mr Boutcher added: “I cannot stress enough how important it has been for people to come forward to speak to the investigation team. It is very clear to me that there are many who see now as the right time to speak and help us get to the truth for the victims’ families.
“They deserve to know what happened to their loved ones.
“I ask that anyone, from whatever organisation or community, who might be able to contribute to that truth, to come forward to speak either to me directly or the team.
“Anyone who contacts Operation Kenova will be treated with great care and respect.”
The independent team of detectives began investigating after the former Director of Public Prosecutions Barra McGrory QC referred multiple allegations to the PSNI.
The PSNI called in help from outside Northern Ireland, and almost 50 detectives are working on the investigation.