Over 200 statements and exhibits in Sliabh Liag murder probe

Detectives probing the murder of a man whose body was found off scenic Sliabh Liag have taken over 200 statements.

The body of Robert Wilkin was found floating in waters off Sliabh Liag on July 3.

Two people have been charged with his murder, with a solicitor representing 21-year-old Nikita Burns blasting delays in the case.

Burns and Alan Vial, a 38-year-old, who also appeared separately via video link at Letterkenny District Court on Monday, are charged that on June 25, 2023, at a place unknown within the State, they did murder one Robert Wilkin (also known as Robin Wilkin).

Detective Garda Ciaran O’Brien from Ballyshannon Garda Station told the court that a file in the case is ‘in the final stages of completion’.

Detective Garda O’Brien outlined the complexity of the probe.

Over 200 statements have been taken in the case while detectives piecing together a complex jigsaw of evidence have gathered ‘well in excess’ of 200 exhibits.

Sixteen interviews were conducted with the accused while six crime scenes were designated. Other scenes of interest were also examined by Gardai.

Detective Garda O’Brien said there was a ‘huge’ volume of forensic analysis required in the matter. One outstanding report is expected to be returned to Gardai this week with another anticipated to be completed by October 13.

Detective Garda O’Brien said: “We believe that a file will be ready to go to the DPP’s office in two weeks’ time when we have those reports.”

Sergeant Gerard Dalton told the court that formal directions are awaited from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the case of Burns. Her solicitor, Mr Rory O’Brien, said the delays from the DPP’s office in the matter are ‘outrageous’.

“I am absolutely outraged what is being communicated to the court,” Mr O’Brien said. “She has been in custody for a significant period. She can only be tried by indictment at the Central Criminal Court. The State, be it the Gardai or the DPP, are doing behind directions, which have yet to come.

“For no directions to be provided is outrageous and it beggars belief. What is going on here? Why can’t they provide a very simple direction? They know there is a ticking clock that they don’t want to trigger. Why not?”

Detective Garda O’Brien told the court that an oral direction was given by the DPP for Burns to be charged with murder and a formal direction is awaited.

“Is this a holding charge while my client languishes in custody?” Mr O’Brien asked. He asked the court to mark the case ‘with as much urgency’. “The State need to provide a simple direction as to where this will be prosecuted and stop the excuses,” he said. “She has pleaded not guilty and she may not see a trial date for two years, but nothing starts until the directions arrive.”

Burns was remanded in custody to appear again via video link before Letterkenny District Court on October 23.

“It is important that the urgency of this matter is impressed,” Judge Éiteáin Cunningham said.

Vial, who is represented by solicitor Mr Patsy Gallagher, also appeared via video link.

Judge Cunningham extended time for a book of evidence to be served on Vial, who was remanded in custody to appear via video link on October 23.