Families search for truth over 1983 south Armagh murders

Families search for truth over 1983 south Armagh murders

Author: Belfast Telegraph August 17, 2026 Duration: 29:06

Paddy Mackin and Eamon MacMahon's bodies were found on the morning of the 13th of July, 1983.  


They both had been blasted with a shotgun as close range.   


The murders of the 34 year olds were first blamed on INLA leaders Dominic and Mary McGlinchey. 


But their families don’t believe that – they believe “other republicans” were involved.  


They claim that an informer recruited by Captain Robert Nairac helped set up their loved ones. They say this man later fled Northern Ireland after Freddie Scappaticci tipped off MI5 that his identity had been compromised.  


The story was broken by our political editor, Suzanne Breen. 


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


For a clear-eyed look at the politics and people shaping Northern Ireland, turn to The BelTel. This podcast moves beyond the headlines, offering context and depth on the stories dominating the conversation. Regular voices include seasoned journalists like Allison Morris, Sam McBride, and Suzanne Breen, who bring their sharp analysis and insider perspectives directly to you. Presented by Ciarán Dunbar, the discussions are timely, informed, and grounded in the region's complex reality. New episodes arrive three times a week, each one serving as an essential briefing that investigates pressing issues, debates differing viewpoints, and informs listeners with nuance. It’s a direct line to the heart of the news from those who know it best. This is a production from the Belfast Telegraph, hosted on Acast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The BelTel
Podcast Episodes
'Where have all the Prods gone?': 'Exodus' from Londonderry 'ignored' [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:08
The Protestant exodus from Londonderry's cityside was ‘largely ignored or denied’ according to a new report.Its authors say they would like to see 'acknowledgement’ and 'acceptance' of the massive population shift and it…
New IRA: Republican terror group active on both sides of the border [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:32
The seizure last week of a bomb containing almost 400g of Semtex plastic explosive has put the New IRA back on to the front pages after a lull in violence.Two people connected to the political group Saoradh have been cha…
West Belfast accountant blames office arson on death driver's friends [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:32
A west Belfast Accountant whose business was destroyed in an arson attack is blaming associates of a convicted death driver. Tim ‘Timo’ Molloy says people close to Martin Olali Jnr, who is awaiting sentencing for mowing…
LucidTalk Polling: DUP's support tanks in Donaldson aftermath [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:12
The DUP's support has slumped disastrously – that's according to the latest Belfast Telegraph / LucidTalk polling. The dramatic fall in backing for the party comes in the wake of former leader Jeffrey Donaldson's convict…