I am currently an officer serving in the Police Service of Northern Ireland, hailing from a nationalist background in West Belfast. Joining the RUC was not a feasible option for me due to the potential danger I would face based on my identity and hometown. However, I made the courageous decision to join the PSNI. In order to protect my true identity, I had to construct an intricate backstory for my immediate family, while keeping this information hidden from our extended family. I even asked my siblings to deceive their own children for several years, solely because I couldn’t trust who they might share this secret with.
Over the past 18 years, I have heavily relied on my family to safeguard my identity. This has meant sacrificing a social life and giving up beloved sports. I have refrained from connecting with old friends on social media to prevent leaving any trace. Unfortunately, all of this is now compromised with a simple click of a button. The recent exposure of Northern Ireland police officers’ details in a major breach fills me with concern, as I fear terrorists may target my parents, who would be an easier target than myself.
What particularly angers me is the nonchalant attitude displayed by the PSNI bosses regarding this situation. Their feeble apologies and emphasis on damage control highlight their prioritization of public image over our well-being. It is clear to me that we will never fully recover from the consequences of this breach.
Sincerely,
[Name and address withheld]
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