Early referral of Noah case to specialist unit ‘unusual but justified’ – inquest

Police were ‘justified’ in elevating Noah Donohoe’s investigation to the CID, it has been claimed (Family handout/PA)

Local police were “justified” in elevating Noah Donohoe’s investigation to the PSNI’s criminal investigation department (CID) at an early stage, an inquest has heard.

A police witness reiterated his view to Belfast Coroner’s Court that officers had “gripped” the seriousness of the search for Noah at an early point.