343 / 494
342
Commission’s Comments and Findings
10.207.
We note, without more, that Maj. Dixon’s witness
statement was signed on 18 June 2015 – at a time when the
Commission of Enquiry was actively embarked upon its mandate.
Re: Para.10.178 (formerly 10.136) – Summary of Responses
10.208.
(i) There is no discrepancy between the evidence of Maj. Dixon
and Maj. Cheverria. Maj. Dixon said he was asked by Maj.
Cheverria to use mortar fire. Maj. Cheverria said he could
not recall if he had made the request.
(ii) The differences in times stated by various Company
Commanders regarding their times of entry into Tivoli
Gardens must be understood against the background of the
lapse of time from the events. Differences in times should
not be construed as false evidence.
Commission’s Comments and Findings
10.209.
When Maj. Cheverria was recalled on 18 February 2016,
questions were put to him by the Chairman as follows:
“COMMISSIONER: Did you request a mortar to be
fired?
A: No, Sir, that was a part of the initial plan. I made
no request on the day.
COMMISSIONER: No, No. Did you?
A: No, Sir.
COMMISSIONER: You didn’t call Dixon and say, ‘time
to fire’ or words to that effect or ask him to fire
anything?
A: No, Sir. I can’t recall making any such request.