The aftermath of the devastating Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017 has left more than physical injuries for the survivors. Over 250 individuals are now filing a lawsuit against MI5, the UK’s security service, for the missed intelligence that could have potentially prevented the attack. Despite the acknowledgment from MI5’s director general, Ken McCallum, about the slim chance that was overlooked, the survivors are seeking justice through legal means.
An inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing revealed that crucial pieces of information about the bomber, Salman Abedi, were disregarded by MI5 as they were assessed to not relate to terrorism. This oversight, according to the inquiry findings, might have been the key to prevent the horrific attack that resulted in the loss of 22 lives and injuries to hundreds of others. The lack of follow-up on actionable intelligence has raised questions about the effectiveness and thoroughness of MI5’s operations.
In a rare public statement, MI5’s director general expressed deep regret over the failure to obtain critical intelligence that could have averted the attack. The chair of the inquiry highlighted the “realistic possibility” that actionable intelligence was available, emphasizing the significant impact it could have had on preventing the tragedy. Despite claims of improvements within MI5, the survivors and families of the victims are left with lingering grief and a sense of betrayal.
The failure of MI5 to act on vital intelligence has sparked criticism from various sources, including former national security adviser Sir Mark Lyall Grant and the families of the victims. Relatives of those who lost their lives in the bombing have been vocal about their disappointment in MI5’s negligence, believing that proper action could have saved their loved ones. The father of Saffie-Rose Roussos, the youngest victim of the attack, expressed his anguish over the missed opportunity to stop Abedi before he entered the arena.
Hudgell Solicitors, Slater & Gordon, and Broudie Jackson Canter are leading the legal action on behalf of the survivors seeking redress from MI5 for their alleged failures. The Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT) will be overseeing the legal proceedings, providing a platform for victims of unlawful actions by public bodies to seek justice. MI5, on the other hand, has chosen not to comment on the ongoing legal case, leaving the survivors and the public with unanswered questions and concerns about accountability and transparency.
Leave a Reply