A long-awaited report on the investigation into a British Army spy operating within the IRA during the Northern Ireland troubles is set to be released today. The probe, known as Operation Kenova, took seven years to scrutinize the actions of the agent known as “Stakeknife,” believed to be Belfast man Freddie Scappaticci.
Stakeknife, who was a member of the IRA’s internal security unit, was suspected of involvement in multiple murders while simultaneously working as a spy for the Army in the 1980s. The investigation, which cost £40m, also delved into the role of the Army and MI5 in handling Stakeknife and other Troubles-related cases.
Led by former Bedfordshire chief constable Jon Boutcher, Operation Kenova involved around 50 detectives from outside Northern Ireland to maintain independence from military and intelligence services. The inquiry focused on Stakeknife’s alleged direct involvement in 18 murders and the army’s possible complicity in serious crimes during the conflict.
Despite the evidence gathered, no prosecutions will be made as Stakeknife passed away in 2023 before the Public Prosecution Service could reach a decision. The report, to be released at 11:00 GMT, will shed light on high-level themes and issues surrounding Stakeknife but will not identify victims per their families’ requests.
The report will be followed by individual reports to victims’ families and a more comprehensive final report later this year. Operation Kenova marks a significant step towards addressing the dark history of the Troubles in Northern Ireland and bringing closure to those affected by the conflict.
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