Policing board to probe Lowry resignation

Top Special Branch commander Bill Lowry’s claim that he was forced to quit are now being probed by the Northern Ireland Policing Board, it emerged today.

Members of the scrutinising body have launched a preliminary inquiry into his allegations that he was betrayed and humiliated after 30 years service.

He has been asked to supply more detail before the board decides whether to launch a full investigation or refer the complaint to Police Ombudsman Nuala O’Loan.

But one source on the 19-member body claimed pressure was now mounting on it to run the inquiry single-handed.