The deputy chief constable of Merseyside has been recommended to oversee the investigation into the 1998 "Real IRA" Omagh bombing, well-placed sources confirmed last night.
The Policing Board is understood to favour the appointment of Mr Mike Tonge from Merseyside Police to supervise the investigation into the bombing that claimed 29 lives, including that of a woman heavily pregnant with twins.
The appointment has yet to be ratified by the policing authority responsible for the Merseyside force, sources said, but if he gets the go-ahead Mr Tonge could be in place in Northern Ireland in the short term. Mr Tonge was appointed deputy chief constable of Merseyside police force last November. If he takes the new role he would answer directly to the Policing Board.
Detective Supt Brian McArthur of the Police Service of Northern Ireland retains operational command of the investigation.
Another Merseyside detective, Mr Philip Jones, has already been given equal status to Mr McArthur to satisfy the Police Ombudsman, Mrs Nuala O'Loan, who had demanded an outside officer head the investigation.
