Sources close to the INLA in Derry last night denied reports that the organisation has kidnapped three young people suspected of involvement in the murder of of Emmett Sheils.
A spokesperson for the IRSP - the political wing of the INLA - said the rumours were unfounded and urged the young people concerned to "do the best thing" for the family of the murdered man.
"There are all sorts of rumours that these men are being
held against their will," said a spokesperson. "As far as we are aware, that is not the case. We would call on these three people to do what would be best for the Moore and Sheils family and make contact with the IRSP or any other community representatives."
A spokesperson for the PSNI said: "Police are aware of speculation surrounding the whereabouts of individuals suspected of involvement in the murder of Emmett Sheils. The police investigation is not assisted by such speculation. The police investigation is making progress, thanks to considerable support from the local commu-nity. Anyone with information about those involved in Emmett's murder should come forward to police. That is the view of everyone in this community, of Emmett's family and community and political representatives. It is the only way to progress this investigation. Police would never ignore anything which would put someone at risk."
Meanwhile, CCTV footage of the moments before Derry man Emmett Sheils was shot dead has been released by police.
The video shows the gang suspected of involvement in killing the 22-year-old pizza delivery driver making their way up Bligh's Lane in the Creggan area.
The footage reveals that some members of the gang were masked while one had a coat over his head. Police say they are keen to speak to anyone who noticed the men either at Bligh's Lane or later on at Fanad Drive.
19-year-old man remains in custody, while a 33-year-old was released without charge.
Mr Sheils was driving a pizza delivery van when he was caught up in a confrontation with five or six masked gunmen.
Up to 1,000 people attended a vigil in memory of Mr Shiels in the city on Tuesday night. On Wednesday, Mr Sheils's family thanked the people of Derry for their support during their ordeal.
Mr Sheils will be laid to rest in the City Cemetery tomorrow morning following Requiem Mass in St Eugene's Cathedral at 11.30am.
Information can be given to detectives in the incident room at Strand Road police station, telephone 7136 7337, or by telephone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
At the time of going to press last night, a 19-year-old man remained in custody in relation to the murder. A 33-year-old was released without charge yesterday.
