Fresh searches for 'Disappeared'

A team of experts has been assembled by the independent commission set up to recover the bodies of those murdered and secretly buried, mainly by the IRA.

The team, including forensic scientists and archeologists, has met victims' relatives and IRA members.

They have visited sites were it is believed some of the bodies are buried.

Earlier this year, the commission, set up in 1999, to locate the bodies placed ads in newspapers asking for help.

Investigators say the response has provided important new information.

Geoff Knupfer, who is leading the team, said he believed this was the best chance of finding the bodies.

"We are collecting information from all over the place, particularly site records, forestry records etc," he said.

"We are fairly confident that we are going to have a good shot at this.

NINE REMAINING DISAPPEARED

• Seamus Wright, 25, from west Belfast, abducted in 1972
• Kevin McKee, 25, abducted with Seamus Wright
• Columba McVeigh, 17, from Donaghmore, Co Tyrone, abducted in 1975
• Robert Nairac, 29, British soldier abducted in south Armagh, 1977
• Brendan Megraw, 22, abducted from west Belfast in 1978
• Gerard Evans, 24, went missing from Crossmaglen in 1979
• Charlie Armstrong, 57, went missing from Crossmaglen in 1981
• Danny McIlhone abducted from west Belfast in 1981
• Seamus Ruddy, 35, disappeared in Paris in 1985

"We have had enormous support from the commission, from the governments and from the organisations involved. Really, this is the best shot that I think we are going to get at this."

Mr Knupfer led the search for the bodies of the victims of the Moors murderers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley.

In 1999, the IRA offered to help locate the bodies of the Disappeared.

Eight of the victims were murdered by the IRA and one by the INLA.

Three victims were found in 1999, while one was uncovered in 2003.

Attempts to find the others have proved unsuccessful.

Investigators say the expertise they have brought together in this team means this is the best hope yet of recovering the bodies.

Realistically, if they do not succeed, it may also be the last hope.