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Bloody Sunday: Police submit file to PPS over family procession

BBC A victim of Bloody Sunday is carried through the streets of DerryBBC
Thirteen people were killed and 15 wounded on Bloody Sunday on 30 January 1972

The police have submitted a file to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) over an alleged unnotified procession involving some Bloody Sunday families.

Some family members of those killed on 30 January 1972 walked to Bishop Street Courthouse in Londonderry ahead of a Soldier F court hearing on 25 August.

The former British soldier is to stand trial for two murders and five attempted murders on Bloody Sunday.

The PPS said an investigation file was received reporting seven people.

"A decision will issue as quickly as possible," a PPS spokesperson has said.

BBC News NI understands that some of the seven individuals included in the police file are relatives of those killed or injured on Bloody Sunday.

Thirteen people were shot dead and at least 15 others injured when members of the Army's Parachute Regiment opened fire on civil rights demonstrators in the Bogside.

SDLP MP Colum Eastwood speaking outside Strand Road police station.
Last month, Colum Eastwood walked out of Strand Road police station in Derry after being asked to attend an interview under caution

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said he did not believe prosecution would be in the public interest.

"Given all the hurt that has been inflicted on these families over the last 50 years, including by the state, police and prosecutors, I honestly do not believe that anyone considers it in the public interest to drag bereaved victims into the dock for walking to court in a quiet, dignified manner," he said.

Mr Eastwood has been reported to Parliament's standards watchdog after saying he would not take part in the criminal investigation into the alleged unnotified procession.

Last month, he walked out of Strand Road police station in Derry after being asked to attend an interview under caution over his attendance in the alleged procession.

The Social Democratic and Labour Party leader said that after waiting for 20 minutes and not being interviewed, he left.

He described the situation as a "total and utter farce".

In Northern Ireland, 28 days' notice must be given before holding a parade or procession.

People can be prosecuted for organising or taking part in an unnotified parade.

Police confirmed that following the conclusion of their investigation, a file was submitted to the PPS on Wednesday.

"It would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this time." a police spokesperson added.