BBC News Online: UK: Northern Ireland

Nelson murder suspects released

The high profile human rights lawyer died when a bomb planted by loyalists exploded under her car in Lurgan, County Armagh in March last year.

After allegations by republicans that members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary colluded with her killers, the murder inquiry was handed over to a team of detectives headed by the deputy chief constable of Norfolk, Colin Port.

A spokesman for Mr Port said on Friday that a 31-year-old woman and 28-year-old man arrested in Portadown on Wednesday had been freed.

Detectives also questioned them about other terrorist offences.

The killing was claimed by the Red Hand Defenders, a fringe loyalist group not operating a ceasefire.

Earlier this year, police from the Nelson investigation questioned a former Royal Irish Regiment soldier, William Ian Hamilton, 28, from Hamiltonsbawn.

He has been charged with possession of arms and explosives and membership of the Loyalist Volunteer Force.