Extradition sought over 1992 killing of British soldier

The High Court has remanded in custody a second man whose extradition is being sought by the UK authorities in connection with the shooting dead of an unarmed British soldier more than 17 years ago.

Today the court was told that British authorities are seeking the surrender of Declan Derek Patrick Duffy (aged 35) originally from Armagh, but with an address at Hanover St West, Dublin 8. He is currently in custody on domestic matters.

In an European Arrest warrant seeking Mr Duffy's surrender the UK authorities claim that on the afternoon of April 13, 1992 he murdered Sergeant Michael Newman, a 34-year-old father-of-one in Derby, England.

Mr Duffy is also facing a charge that he conspired to commit murder on dates between January 1 1992, and April 13 1992.

Sgt Michael Newman was shot in the head outside an Army careers office where he worked. He died from his wounds the following day.

The Irish National Liberation Army (INLA) later claimed responsibility for the killing.

The UK is also seeking the extradition of another man, Anthony Patrick Gorman (aged 39), originally from Co. Armagh but with an address at Bailieborough in Co. Cavan, on the same charges.

He is currently on bail pending the hearing of the extradition request.

Today amid tight security at the High Court Mr Justice Michael Peart remanded Mr Duffy in custody to appear before the court on a date later this month.

The judge also informed Mr Duffy of his rights to legal advice and that he had a right to consent to his surrender should he so desire.