大象传媒

In 1983, the IRA kidnapped British supermarket executive Don Tidey near his Dublin home. This triggered an unprecedented response from Irish law enforcement, with a joint operation involving the police and the Irish armed forces. The extensive manhunt marked a historic moment of cooperation between the two organisations.

Over the course of three weeks, the search led to dense woodland in County Leitrim. Tragically, the operation concluded with a double fatality: the loss of army private Patrick Kelly and Garda recruit Gary Sheehan.

Retired sergeant major PJ Higgins, who served in the Irish Defence Forces, recalls the tumultuous search. Four decades later, he reflects on the mistakes that marred the rescue mission, leading to a fatal shootout and the tragic loss of his colleague Patrick.

Detective sergeant Cyril Meehan of the Irish police remembers the sorrowful day of his friend Gary Kelly's death.

Retired detective inspector Edwin Handcock provides insights into the subsequent investigation. In addition, Private Kelly's son, David, shares the enduring impact of his father's death and his unrelenting pursuit of justice.