Human rights watchdog concerned about North detention

A human rights watchdog in the North has expressed concern about the length of time a 17-year-old is being held for questioning in connection with the murders of two British soldiers earlier this month.

The teenager is one of four people being questioned about the murders outside the Massareene barracks in Co Antrim.

Another seven are being held in connection with the murder of a PSNI officer in Craigavon two days later.

Under British laws intended to combat Islamic terrorists, the detainees can be held for up to 28 days without charge.

The 17-year-old is legally a minor and has so far been held for nine days.

The Committee on the Administration of Justice is reminding the authorities that they must uphold human rights.

It also says it is concerned that some of those being held have been named publicly.