Travesty of justice must never reoccur

THE sense of public dismay following the aborted murder trial, from which the accused walked free because six witnesses suffered collective amnesia in the face of suspected intimidation, reflects the gravity of a case which threatens to undermine the foundations of the criminal legal system.

While the full implications of the collapse of this trial have yet to emerge, the debacle has created widespread concern over the possible repercussions for similar cases yet to come before the courts.

Undoubtedly, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the prosecution of serious crime. A legal crisis could result, as the collapse of this case is certain to be scrutinised and taken on board by gangland figures across the country.