Government Responds to Operation Kenova Findings on Alleged Agent STEAK KNIFE
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, has addressed the recently published Final Report from Operation Kenova concerning the activities of an alleged agent referred to as ‘STEAK KNIFE’. This inquiry was conducted by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and aimed to uncover the truth surrounding various historical events linked to the Troubles.
Commendations for the Kenova Team
In his statement, Benn commended the efforts of the Kenova team, led by Sir Iain Livingstone and Jon Boutcher. He praised their ability to build trust with families, prioritise the needs of victims, and provide clarity regarding the fates of their loved ones. He noted that Operation Turma, a segment of Kenova, resulted in the extradition and impending trial of an individual for the murder of three Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) officers in 1982.
Legacy Investigations and Reforms
Benn highlighted that Kenova has established a benchmark for future investigations into the legacy of the Troubles, with lessons from the operation informing the drafting of the forthcoming Troubles Bill. He expressed his deep sympathy for all families who have endured loss in the heinous circumstances discussed in the report.
Investigation into STEAK KNIFE
The Operation Kenova report focused on assessing whether there was any evidence of criminal actions by STEAK KNIFE or their handlers. Benn found the reported conduct of the alleged agent and their involvement with the Provisional IRA profoundly troubling, stating that such actions should never have occurred. He noted that significant changes have been made in agent handling protocols over the years, introducing stricter regulations overseen by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner and the Investigatory Powers Tribunal.
Government Stance on Naming Agents
In response to Operation Kenova’s request to disclose the identity of STEAK KNIFE, Benn indicated that ongoing legal proceedings concerning the Neither Confirm Nor Deny (NCND) policy would delay a definitive answer. He stated that national security must remain the government’s foremost priority, cautioning that revealing agent identities could compromise this obligation.
Concerns Over Collusion
The report also sheds light on findings from Operation Denton, which investigated homicides attributed to the UVF Glennane Gang. Benn described the incidents of possible collusion involving members of the security forces as distressing. He confirmed that the government will issue a response to the complete Denton Report once it is officially published, while keeping in mind related ongoing legal actions.
Background
The Troubles, a conflict spanning roughly three decades, involved various paramilitary groups and resulted in significant loss of life and turmoil in Northern Ireland. Investigations into these events remain crucial for accountability, healing, and the peace process.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-government-response-to-operation-kenova-report
