IRA link to FARC bomb is probed

national | miscellaneous | news report

Friday February 14, 2003 11:43

by Robby - RN

rob_s57 at hotmail dot com

Dungannon

Minister claims help went to rebels

IRA expertise is suspected of playing a key role in a huge car bomb that killed 35 people last week in Colombia's capital, the country's Defence Minister has said.

The device that wrecked a crowded Bogota social club, wounding more than 160 people and leaving six children among the dead, was "something more sophisticated than we have seen in the past," Defence Minister Martha Lucia Ramirez said in Washington this week.

She said Colombian authorities, who are being aided in their investigation by American explosives experts, believe FARC rebels built the bomb with the help of the technology from the IRA or the Basque group ETA.

The Colombian government believes all three groups have formed a network to exchange information about weapons and tactics.

Ms Ramirez's accusation comes as a detailed comparison of IRA and FARC weapons was reportedly presented by Colombian intelligence to the trial of IRA suspects James Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley.

The intelligence dossier says FARC has developed a range of home-made mortars made from gas cylinders over the past five years.

The devices bear a strong resemblance to mortars and other devices developed by the IRA.

Last year, FARC used IRA-style mortars in an attack on a church in Choco, Colombia, that killed 119 people.

The dossier also claims the use of improvised devices has increased since Monaghan, Connolly and McCauley visited a rebel-held area of the country in 2001.

Monaghan, who sat on the Sinn Fein executive with Gerry Adams and was named in Parliament as the IRA's director of engineering; Connolly, an acknowledged Sinn Fein member; and McCauley, who was once shot by the RUC near an IRA weapons' hide, deny the charges.

As well as the mortars, FARC terrorists have used a detonation system that resembles one developed by the IRA to set off bombs in spite of security force jamming equipment.

"The IRA involvement has been deadly for our troops, because the FARC's ability has taken a massive leap forward in just a few years," a member of Colombia's security forces told The Times earlier this week.

The three Irishmen vehemently deny any connection to terrorism, saying they were studying the Colombian peace process.

Their supporters allege they will not get a fair trial, citing military dirty tricks, shortcomings in the the Colombian investigative process and pre-trial speculation.

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Comments (26 of 26)

Jump To Comment:

by Rob

Fri Aug 01, 2003 18:15

I like this thread

to another anonymous fool

by pat c

Mon Feb 17, 2003 12:20

"Pat C - you are an idiot.
by To Pat C Fri, Feb 14 2003, 10:28pm"

Come on now, I may weel be an idiot, but its not enough to merely assert it. Show some proof.

"You are someone that once (back in December) has the nerve to say that neither the IRA or FARC were terroriest organisations."

Correct, that is my opinion. FARC are fighting against a government which sends out its own Army AND rigt wing militias to gun down Trade Unionists, Community Activists, Priests, basically anyone who challenges the right of caopitalists to rule as they will.

The IRA were engaged in a war against British Imperioalism. This war had mass backing, even the Brits admit that. It doesent mean I agree that armed struggle is always the best way forward or that I agree with all of the IRAs actions.

The IRA were never terrorists.

"You're a fool."

Maybe I am, but you will have to back up that statement.

"And you support IRA scum."

The IRA are not scum.

"p.s. I'm from the south."

So are 3.8 million other people.

robbie the pro USA terrorist

by anti death squads

Sun Feb 16, 2003 22:33

This robbie prick sounds like Bush are you from texas or ballymena? The terrorist in Columbia is the USA AND ITS DEATH SQUADS.

A lot of people spouting idealogical crap

by Me

Sat Feb 15, 2003 15:20

The bottom line is innocent people are getting killed. Dress it up how you wish, it's always wrong.
What matters is how people deal with it.
At least the government in Colombia has begun under it's new President to try to root it out, whether it's the FARC, AUC or it's own forces.

Too many people talking here without the realisation of what having a loved one murdered or kidnapped actually does to your lives.

Aren't we missing the point here?

Sat Feb 15, 2003 15:16

Getting back to the point (IE sidestepping the inherent racist comments).

Shouldn't the point be that there is highly probably a link between the IRA and FARC?
Colombia, particularly the places these guys visited, are not exactly the most popular tourist locations in the world.
It's all a bit too coincidental.

Also, with the world waging the 'war on terror', is it not likely that this outlook will band together terrorist factions of different idealogical (or otherwise) beliefs?

Neither the IRA or FARC are fighting for a worthwhile cause - both have become overcome by the desire purely for power.

Wake up bernadette mary, 'pat', james

Sat Feb 15, 2003 07:50

1st, I guess I have to spell it out - for those that can't read - "Robby - RN" started this topic. I am not "Robby - RN". I am Rob - I have responded with whatever handle ya'll wish to call me - Bob, Bobbie, etc. I now see the confusion, and that I'm wasting my time with a bunch of idiots. I love how you assign nicknames after one post :)

"bernie", yes, the right wing, and left wing have both killed innocent people here. It's all about the drug trade - wake up. Yes, I own property - not a ranch - just a modest condo in a city - my vacation home. The FARC has abandoned all ideology of their roots. This is how it works - your average farmer just struggling to get by gets a visit by the the local FARC rep. - "your wife or children die, OR - you give us a cow a month, etc.." They either give in, or give up and move to the slums that surround the major cities. For those with a little more means, that wish to refuse, they hook up and fund their local AUC rep for protection. Viscious circle - none of it good. And yes, throw in the corruption of the government.

For all of you armchair quarterbacks, if you really would like to help - I can post several charities that are doing substantial work here in Colombia to assist the displaced and impoverished - I'm a devoted supporter of several catholic charities here.

Granted I'm wasting my time, because it appears by your FARC logic that you even support the murder of catholic priests and kidnappings of entire masses on Sunday.

Saludos

lets not forget the DUP and terrorist THIRD FORCE/LVF

by bernadette mary

Fri Feb 14, 2003 23:33

Snooty establishment unionists may look down their noses at working class loyalist and republican paramilitaries now, but there was a time when Rob and his ilk didn't mind jumping into bed and forming the extreme right wing loyalist THIRD FORCE and lets not forget the very Reverend DUP William MCRea sharing a platform with godfearing, bible thumping, LVF smack pusher and sectarian murderer terrorist Billy 'liar' Wright. Facts are the right wing Colombian STATE JUNTA are the real terrorist butchers in Colombia, torturing, murdering and disappearing millions of ordinary peasant Colombian workers. Facts also point to the Colombian state agent provocatuers in the MILITARY JUNTA being responsible for the recent car bomb.

Pat C - you are an idiot.

by To Pat C

Fri Feb 14, 2003 23:28

You are someone that once (back in December) has the nerve to say that neither the IRA or FARC were terroriest organisations.

You're a fool. And you support IRA scum.

p.s. I'm from the south.

sshh!

by Robbie

Fri Feb 14, 2003 20:13

BiteMe at AUC dot org

Aidan, Loki and the other intellectuals probably believed that IP thing, and that the FARC could actually use it, and that I actually give a shit - let's not ruin their day!

ONE GREAT TIP FROM THE WISDOM OF COLOMBIANS...

Nunca olvides 'DAR PAPAYA...'

1) Nunca de papaya

2) Papaya servida. Papaya comida!!!!

Ask any Colombian and they'll tell you the significance of it. Very
helpful.

Saludos.

Incorrect

by Aidan - IMC Ireland

Fri Feb 14, 2003 19:57

Robbie whatever, what Loki said is untrue your IP address can't be traced from this site so don't worry.

And loki, fuck off

So says CIA and MI5

by James McKenna - Anti Propaganda League

Fri Feb 14, 2003 19:43

Give it a rest. They also take pictures of TD's and protestors......ie .US attache John O'Sullivan outside Shannon Jan 18 .....Now if he said the IRA did it I would believe him!!!!!!

Why don't you and him go and take a jump Robbie you dope

Bird Brain Bob

Fri Feb 14, 2003 18:37

"You should really pay us a visit, I can steer you in a good direction for some "bird watching""

How does the above in any way address the fact that Bannoti & Mowlam also visted the FARC area?

Neither does it address the issue of both State & Right Wing death squads in Colombia.

Poor Bob, well maybe the FARC will relieve him of all his worries.

Just a bit more Common Sense

by Robby

Fri Feb 14, 2003 18:23

"So, you are happy with the death squads? Even trade unionists are shot down like dogs by the State supported right wing militias.

You are part of the problem Robby, I hope the FARC track you down."

"Mo Mowlam & Mary Banotti have also visited that area. Should those 2 get 20 yrs?"

"IRA connections? So you have convicted them already."

"The truth is that its the State & its right wing paramilitary allies who randomly murder women & children.

But you already know that, dont you?"
----------------------------------------------------

You should really pay us a visit, I can steer you in a good direction for some "bird watching"

Your Details Have Been Sent To Farc

by Loki

Fri Feb 14, 2003 18:17

Robert

There cannot be too many people from the North, Dungannon in particular who spend several months a year in Colombia. Even if Robert is not your real name, you given enough dtails.

Your IP address has been traced.

FARC will be happy to meet up wiyh you on your next visit.

Robby the death squad backer

Fri Feb 14, 2003 18:12

""This is not suprising he is a most unpopular president of a state in civil War"

- I'd change that to "most popular", he is very well liked.

I own property in Colombia and spend several months each year there - so here's my 2 cents based upon first hand experience:"

So, you are happy with the death squads? Even trade unionists are shot down like dogs by the State supported right wing militias.

You are part of the problem Robby, I hope the FARC track you down.

"These 3 are guilty of stupidity at a minimum. If they truly were "observing" the peace process they would have utilized proper protocal. How 3 white anglos could stroll into an area where most Colombians would not consider venturing into is amazing. 99.99% of the time this means kidnapp - automatic - but not these 3 - hmmm. If they had admirable intentions (yeah right) then they should feel lucky that they're alive and that they'll only get 20 years - so don't whine about a fair trial - they're lucky. "

Mo Mowlam & Mary Banotti have also visited that area. Should those 2 get 20 yrs?

"In any case, their mere presence and IRA connections have wounded the FARC substantially, and guarantees additional financial backing for Uribe."

IRA connections? So you have convicted them already.

"Colombians are not sympathetic to any cause utilizing tactics that randomly murder innocent women and children."

The truth is that its the State & its right wing paramilitary allies who randomly murder women & children.

But you already know that, dont you?

Yeah, FARC bags another child

Fri Feb 14, 2003 17:49

I don't recall the founding fathers slaughtering inocent women and children:

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/N14237891

What an idiot

IRA needed In Poorer Regions USA

by SOS_US_Uncle_Sam POWcampPOW - United States Needs IRA in Poorer Regions

Fri Feb 14, 2003 17:35

United States TheLargePrisonerOfWarCamp

It has become obvious that the common American is now subjected to the same sorts of tyranny the IRA has been fighting for decades.

Sun Tzu said "The war never ends."

It is time to call a ruthless and thieving bunch of animals at the top of American government and industry what they are,

"They are enemies of the common man in America and the World!"

Pledge allegiance to no flag as the flag is not what matters, but the action of the government behind it.

Way to go IRA, FARC, and other men of valor, who resemble the founding fathers of the USA....A gun in one hand and a vision of removing shackles and providing nourishment on their mind.

These posts are monitored by America's SS. Take a ride, Clyde, as it is rather "Fly Agaric" wonderful when your brethren pigs spit in your eyes.

http://patrickdicks.tripod.com/On_the_road_.jpg

A Little Common Sense Needed Here

Fri Feb 14, 2003 17:18

"This is not suprising he is a most unpopular president of a state in civil War"

I own property in Colombia and spend several months each year there - so here's my 2 cents based upon first hand experience:

These 3 are guilty of stupidity at a minimum. If they truly were "observing" the peace process they would have utilized proper protocal. How 3 white anglos could stroll into an area where most Colombians would not consider venturing into is amazing. 99.99% of the time this means kidnapp - automatic - but not these 3 - hmmm. If they had admirable intentions (yeah right) then they should feel lucky that they're alive and that they'll only get 20 years - so don't whine about a fair trial - they're lucky.

In any case, their mere presence and IRA connections have wounded the FARC substantially, and guarantees additional financial backing for Uribe. Colombians are not sympathetic to any cause utilizing tactics that randomly murder innocent women and children.

could you feasibly be born in the North

by iosaf

Fri Feb 14, 2003 17:16

represent a constituency at Westminster take the obligatory oath of allegiance to the UKofGB&NI and then be President of Ireland and take the obligatory oath of allegiance to Ireland articles 1,2,3 etc.....
I thought the same with Austin Currie didnt Fine Gael?

Mortars aren't exactly 'high tech'

by Mike

Fri Feb 14, 2003 14:58

stepbystepfarm at shaysnet dot com

It's kind of ridiculous to imagine that anybody needs technical assistance to make a mortar! I mean after all, what are we talking about, 14th century technology? OK, I'm exagerating a little bit since that was just for "solid shot" with fused mortar bombs not being around till the early 19th century (THINK --- You've all heard "The Star Spangled Banner" -- well the "bombs bursting in air" refer to what happens when a fuse was too short). Even "modern" fuses for mortar bombs are well over a hundred years old.

by definition a brit? hmmm. could be both, methinks.

by jm

Fri Feb 14, 2003 14:35

"by definition a brit."
i understand that you could feasibly get yourself an irish passport and become the president of the republic of ireland (if you were born in the north).
so i guess you're just defining yourself along sectarian lines, eh?
don't be coy.
just admit your ideological perpective. no-one will hold it against you.
well, i won't, at least.

Plenty of non brits in the Occupied 6 counties

Fri Feb 14, 2003 14:03

"No one pays me to observe the truth, I live in Northern Ireland so I am by definition a "brit", your sectarian overtones disgust me!"

So calling you a Brit is sectarian! You really are a scream.

You think calling the Saville Tribunal, the Bloody Sunday is sectarian! Thats what the Irish Times calls it every day.

Observe the Truth? How is an opinion of the Colombian President "the truth"? Is he infallible?

El Pais Feb 12. 2003

Fri Feb 14, 2003 12:56

article on co-operation between USA and Spain on ETA and surveillence of pro FARC groups in Spain, has established that of all individuals named in communication between FIE (spanish political division) and the FBI and CIA only one person with a basque surname was found to be a credible link. He is a member of IU. Izquerda Unida.
The left wing party of Spain which has just announced a fourparty coalition in Catalonia with ICV the green party.

There as of yet no proof for these allegations.

I have consistently agreed with Paul Hill of the Guildford 4, that these men do not stand a chance of a free and unprejudiced trial. President Uribe has been making allegations of transatlantic terrorist links for some time.
This is not suprising he is a most unpopular president of a state in civil War.

I am not a supporter of the 3. I am a supporter of Human Rights. Bring those men home. Bring them home to face a fair trial if you wish, but bring them home.

nor am i paid to observe the truth.

Fri Feb 14, 2003 12:51

Get a grip pat c

Fri Feb 14, 2003 12:47

No one pays me to observe the truth, I live in Northern Ireland so I am by definition a "brit", your sectarian overtones disgust me!

Royal Robbie

Fri Feb 14, 2003 12:00

Bobbie Boy

Are you paid by the Brits to churn out this stuff?

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IRA link to FARC bomb is probed

Comments (26 of 26)