Kenova lead, former Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, has reassured people that the investigations and reviews will continue despite the implications of the coronavirus outbreak.
Operation Kenova is a complex and wide-ranging investigation which was launched to investigate allegations of murder, kidnap and torture dating back to the 1970s. The independent investigation team has subsequently taken on a number of further investigations and reviews at the request of Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI).
However, the UK and Irish governments have imposed strict restrictions on people’s movements in recent weeks in a bid to slow the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus.
Mr Boutcher has reassured families involved in the Kenova investigations that detectives are continuing to work on the cases by working at home - reviewing files and material with the assistance of technology.
Mr Boutcher said: “It is vitally important to underline that this virus is indiscriminate of who it attacks, it has no mind of race, colour, ethnicity, culture or opinions. All of us are the same regardless of what borders we have erroneously put in our societies and it is crucial that we come together at this difficult time to look after each other, whatever our background. It is a time for us to take the advice of government to look after all those who need extra support, to take care of our families, loved ones, friends and neighbours. That might mean not seeing them, but making sure each day that they are alright.
"Please take care, follow the advice of washing your hands and staying home and let’s all do what we can to keep casualties to a minimum."
In anticipation of the restrictions Kenova had arranged for a considerable amount of material to be transported from Northern Ireland to its London offices.
He said: “These are undoubtedly unprecedented times and I appreciate a lot of people will be concerned about our ability to continue with our investigations. However, I’d like to reassure those families that we can continue doing lots of work – including reviewing documents and huge amounts of other material that we have recently acquired.
“In line with government advice, almost all of my staff are now working remotely. They are working differently, but they are still conducting vital work on the investigations.
“Unfortunately with the situation as it currently is, we obviously won’t be able to meet many of those connected with the investigation for some time. Indeed I had instigated such a position some days in advance of the government restrictions, for which I am grateful for everyone’s understanding. But rest assured that my, and my team’s, commitment and dedication to Kenova is stronger than ever and we will continue to drive forward the important work in order to get the truth the families deserve. We are using this time wisely to review what we have already done and read into vast amounts of new material.
“I wish everyone connected with the Kenova investigations, regardless in what capacity we have engaged with you, the best of health and if you wish to contact us you can still do so through this website - even if just to be reassured.”
Mr Boutcher has also recorded a video message, which is available by clicking this link.