A memorial plaque for an RUC officer from Co Donegal which was stolen from a local graveyard has been returned – with a different chilling inscription on it.
The family of John Doherty laid a bespoke plaque and poppy wreath on his family plot at Castlefin graveyard at the end of October last year.
However, just a week later the items were stolen from his graveside.
But now the plaque has been returned with the original inscription crossed out and a new inscription on the other side.
It is understood the plaque was reinstated at the graveside in recent days.
The original inscription featured the logo of the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) and a tribute to Detective Constable Doherty on the 50th anniversary of his death in 1973.
However, those who stole the plaque have returned it with lines scored through the original tribute.
On the other side of the plaque they have written new wording which is signed off with the words ‘Up the IRA’
The back of the plaque reads “Remember all the victims of the RUC collusive behaviour with loyalist paramilitaries.RUC/PSNI Sectarian Police – enforcing British rule in Ireland not welcome Up the IRA.”
Detective Constable Doherty was 31 years old when he was shot by the IRA on October 28, 1973.
He had been visiting his widowed mother in Ballindrait, who lived just 5 minutes from border.
He was gunned down at the entrance to his mother’s home and his girlfriend was also seriously injured in the attack, but survived. Nobody was ever convicted of the murder.
A service was held on Saturday 28th October last to mark the 50th anniversary of Detective Constable Doherty’s death.
His brother Terry Doherty said at the time of the theft that he believed the pieces were taken because John was a member of the RUC.
He also said that the stone will not be replaced, as the relatives don’t want to give the criminals the chance to steal again.
“I won’t give them the opportunity or the satisfaction,” Mr Doherty said.
“John will always be remembered for who he was and for what he represented.”
Gardai issued an appeal at the time of the theft for any witnesses to contact them.
A Garda spokesperson said “A black marble memorial plaque and a wreath were stolen from John Doherty’s grave between 8.45pm on Saturday November 4th and Midday on Sunday November 5th.
“Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have any information in relation to the incident to contact them on 0749167100 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666111.”