PSNI hold four over drinking den killing

Police were today questioning four people in connection with the murder of a man who was bludgeoned to death after a fall-out at a drinking den.

The body of Andrew Bannon, in his early 50s, was discovered at his flat in the Mullaghmore estate in Omagh, Co Tyrone yesterday.

He had been battered over the head with a blunt object.

Another man needed hospital treatment for head, leg and arm injuries.

It is believed Mr Bannon’s flat was a place where people gathered for drinking sessions.

Superintendent Michael Skuce, who is heading up the murder inquiry, said the victim was already dead when officers arrived at the scene.

“This was a sickening attack, brutal and extremely vicious,” he said.

Police made the arrests following a search of a number of houses, a spokesman said.

Forensic teams were continuing to search the houses today, he added.

Mr Bannon had moved back to his home town after spending time living in Dublin.

Neighbours and friends, who described him as a quiet man, were shocked by the savage killing.

One said: “He kept himself to himself, but I think when the conclusion is drawn on this it will be down to drink.

“Andrew liked a drink but he never caused any problems.”