Former army medic claims he was told to plant ammunition on dead bodies of Ballymurphy victims, inquest hears

In August 1971, eleven unarmed civilians were murdered by British Paratroopers in Ballymurphy, Belfast.The incident in question was carried out by the very same soldiers who travelled to Derry only five months later murdering thirteen innocents civilians in what was later known as ‘ Bloody Sunday. This film documents this tragic event, offering testimony from family and friends, including commentary from witnesses and leading politicians.

A former Army medic has claimed he was told to plant ammunition on the bodies of  Ballymurphy victims, an inquest has heard.

Nigel Mumford was attached to the Second Battalion of the Parachute Regiment during the shooting incidents involving soldiers in the west Belfast estate in August 1971.

Giving evidence to the inquests of the 10 people killed by gunfire, Mr Mumford also claimed the bereaved relatives now “just want money”.

Speaking via video link from an unknown location, he told Belfast Coroner’s Court that an officer suggested planting bullets in the clothing of some of the wounded. “I would not allow it,” he said.

When asked why he did not report what happened, he said he did not want to negatively impact his career.

“It takes a brave man to go up against an officer in the British Army,” he said.

The episode relatives call the “Ballymurphy massacre” started on August 9 as the British Army moved into republican strongholds to arrest IRA suspects after the introduction by the Stormont administration of the controversial policy of internment without trial.

Six civilians were killed on August 9 including a Catholic priest and a mother-of-eight.

Mr Mumford disputed a witness statement given to the inquest by David Callaghan saying that he had been badly beaten by soldiers at a temporary Army base at Henry Taggart Hall.

read more at UK Telegraph