The thirty-year commemoration of the bombing of the workers’ van at the Teebane crossroads took place on Sunday 16 January 2022. A Christian service was organised at the roadside in front of the memorial stone where the bomb exploded, killing eight innocent men who were on their journey back home after an honest day’s work, as Reverend William McCrea said. The minister had encouraging words for the bereaved families and their close friends as well as those injured in the same incident, reminding them of the two pilgrims on the way to Emmaus who invited the Lord Jesus Christ to be their guest. He then became their host before he was recognised as the risen Saviour. Earlier on Reverend Ivor Smith had opened in prayer, making mention of the need of the victims to be supported every day of their lives since the tragedy took place.
Jean Caldwell was gently supported by both her daughters, standing either side of her. She expressed her disappointment that no one has ever been made accountable for this act of terrorism, which deprived her of her beloved husband. Reverend McCrea stated that those responsible may have escaped the justice of men, but will not escape the justice of God and he hinted that some of them may already have faced divine justice.
It was encouraging to see so many people attending the Christian service. This tragedy and its victims of terrorism have not been forgotten. Following the report issued by the Historical Enquiries Team (HET) there remain questions to be answered and issues to be addressed. For this reason, a complaint has been lodged and accepted for investigation by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland (PONI). This complaint deserves to be supported by as many victims of the Teebane atrocity as possible. If they wish to do so, those bereaved or injured are invited to contact the Ulster Human Rights Watch Advocacy Service to access support.