Geordie Gilmore shot dead by south east Antrim UDA in March this year

THE PSNI say that over the past two days detectives from the Serious Crime Branch have conducted a number of searches in the Castlemara area and other areas of Carrickfergus in relation to two separate murders. 

On Monday, June 26, a house in the Castlemara area was searched in relation to the murder of Mark Gourley, who went missing from Glengormley in 2009.

Officers also searched land on Monday in relation to the murder of George Gilmore Senior. 

One further house search in relation to Mr Gilmore’s murder took place in Carrickfergus area yesterday (June 27).

A number of items were seized and taken away for further examination.

The 44 year old father was shot while driving his car in the residential area of Pinewood Avenue in broad daylight on March 13.

Detective Inspector Darren McCartney said: “I would like to thank the community of Carrickfergus who have already provided me with information in relation to not only these two murders but other serious crimes in the area.

“These searches over the past two days are proof that police have listened and responded to this information.

“I would appeal to local people to continue providing police with support in these two investigations so that we can bring those responsible to justice.

Missing Mark Gourley’s disappearance now being treated as a murder inquiry

“If anyone has any further information please contact detectives on the telephone number which has been dedicated to the team investigating George Gilmore’s murder on 028 9025 9542.

“I would like to reassure you that any information provided will treated in strict confidence.”

Police believe the murders of Geordie Gilmore and Mark Gourley are not connected and are being treated as two separate inquiries.