Detectives questioning Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams over the murder of Belfast mother Jean McConville are to ask a judge for more time to interview him, Martin McGuinness has said.
With the initial 48-hour deadline looming for officers to either charge or release Mr Adams after his arrest on Wednesday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is to apply for an extension, the Deputy First Minister said.
Adams, 65, who vehemently denies allegations levelled by former republican colleagues that he ordered Mrs McConville’s murder and secret burial, now faces a third night in custody at Antrim police station.
Mr Adams, now an elected representative for Co Louth in the Dáil, voluntarily presented himself for interview at the station by prior arrangement with detectives.
The Deputy First Minister said: “Yesterday I said that the timing of the arrest of Gerry Adams was politically-motivated.
“Today’s decision by the PSNI to seek an extension confirms me in my view.”
Mr McGuinness said Sinn Féin would ``reflect'' and ``review'' its support for policing in the region if Mr Adams is charged.
But he urged republicans to remain calm if and until that happened.