Ombudsman probes Adams shooting

Gerry Adams survived an assassination bid in March 1984

The Police Ombudsman is investigating the police handling of an assassination attempt on Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams more than 20 years ago.

He has complained to the ombudsman about press reports that the police had prior knowledge of a UDA plan to ambush him and three colleagues in Belfast.

The four were driving off after a court appearance in March 1984 when their car was sprayed with bullets by a UDA gang.

Mr Adams was hit five times, but received emergency hospital treatment.

UDA leader John Gregg, himself murdered in 2003, was jailed for his part in the ambush.

Mr Adams complained to the ombudsman about possible collusion after a report in the Andersonstown News said the police had been tipped off by an informer inside the UDA a week before the attack took place.

The ombudsman's office confirmed they have received a complaint and an initial investigating officer is examining the police handling of the matter.