ARMY REACTION:NORTHERN IRELAND'S most senior soldier Brig George Norton last night condemned the manner of the killing of two of his troops, and paid tribute to those who treated the wounded at the scene.
Referring to those killed, he said: “These young sappers were making their homes in Northern Ireland and spent the past number of months undergoing intense pre-deployment training.”
“With only hours to go before flying to Afghanistan they were going to share a meal together. Many of their colleagues and friends are already in Afghanistan facing a dangerous and difficult six-month tour. Indeed, the professionalism of soldiers who immediately gave first aid on the scene undoubtedly saved lives.
“Our thoughts . . . are with the colleagues and friends of these young soldiers,” he said. “This has shocked the community and we are all grateful for the sympathies expressed.”
PSNI officers were continuing to examine a Vauxhall Cavalier abandoned in the Ranaghan Lane area of nearby Randalstown.