Columba McVeigh (19), from Donaghmore, Co Tyrone, was killed by the Provisional IRA in 1975.
He is one of the four remaining ‘Disappeared’ victims of the Troubles whose bodies have never been found.
In August, the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains (ICLVR) began a fresh search for Mr McVeigh’s remains at Bragan Bog close to Emyvale, Co Monaghan.
Six unsuccessful searches had previously been carried out at the site, dating back to 1999, covering more than 26 acres of ground.
Columba’s brother Oliver McVeigh at the site of the search in Co Monaghan
Following the last search in November 2023, a previously unsearched area became the centre for the most recent operation.
However, yesterday, lead investigator Eamonn Henry confirmed the search had been completed without success.
“This is devastating news for the McVeigh family, coming as it does so close to the 50th anniversary of Columba’s disappearance just over a month ago. Our hearts go out to them,” he said.
“Everyone involved in the search, including the ICLVR investigators, the forensic archaeologists and the contractors who operate the machinery, are bitterly disappointed and share the frustration of the McVeigh family that yet another search of the bog has ended in this way.
Columba McVeigh (19) was abducted and murdered by the IRA in 1975
News Catch Up – Tuesday 16 December
“Over 26 acres of Bragan Bog have now been searched. And while we continue to believe that the information we are working on has been given in good faith, clearly there is still something missing.
“I can assure the McVeigh family, and the other families of the Disappeared who give them invaluable support, that the Commission remains fully committed to finding Columba, and we will not rest until his remains are returned and he receives the Christian burial that he has been denied for far too long.”
The Commission said anyone with information on any of the outstanding Disappeared cases — Joe Lynskey, Columba McVeigh, Robert Nairac and Seamus Maguire — should contact the ICLVR in confidence.
Secretary of State Hilary Benn said the news was disappointing.
“I am deeply saddened that, in spite of the substantial efforts of the Commission, the remains of Columba have not been located at Bragan Bog,” he said.
Disappeared Commission Head: ‘Despite hopes, TV drama ‘Say Nothing’ didn’t lead to any new information’
“Having visited the site last month, I want to acknowledge the diligence and determination of the Commission to locate Columba since the first search at Bragan Bog was conducted in 1999, as well as the investigators, forensic archaeologists and the search teams for their painstaking and sensitive work.
“Today, my thoughts are with the family of Columba, who have endured this unimaginable burden for so many years, and who only recently marked the 50th anniversary of his death.
“The UK Government remains committed to the work of the ICLVR.
“I call on anyone with information that could help the recovery of the remains of those still missing to pass that information to the Commission as soon as possible.”
A search for the remains of Seamus Maguire is set to get underway next year.
Inspector Henry this month told the BelTel podcast that plans were in place to search an area close to Mr Maguire’s former home.
Mr Henry said he remains “absolutely” confident the remains of the four remaining Disappeared can be found by the Commission.