A dramatized memoir of a Special Branch Officer operating at the outset of the Northern Ireland Troubles. James (not his real name) runs a network of informers and sources operating along the border area of South Down and South Armagh during the worst years of violence. For both Handler and Source, it’s a matter of life and death. Some names, dates and details have been changed to protect the living.

Episode 4: Internment day

James recalls the chaos of the 9th August 1971, when hundreds of men were arrested by the Army after the introduction of internment. Meanwhile, an informer operating close to the border provides valuable intelligence on changes within an IRA unit, giving James an unusual opportunity – but the Provisionals soon grow suspicious, leading to unforeseen consequences.

Cast:

James – Jonathan Harden
Interviewer – Michael Patrick
Prisoner – Faolan Morgan
Lieutenant – Paul Mallon
Source – Marty Maguire
Wife – Megan Armitage

A BBC Northern Ireland Production Show less