AFTER he was cleared of allegedly harbouring the gang when they were on the run, Mohammed 'Ziggy' Abbes said his feelings were with Mr Bullock's family.

Mr Abbes was accused of hiding Mo Nasser, Kent and Bruce at a block of flats he lived in just yards from Newport central police station. The Toulouse-born father was alleged to have assisted them by allowing them to stay at Florence House in Pill's Ruperra Street.

Mary Parry Evans, defending Mr Abbes, claimed he had no motive for helping the three and said he knew Mr Bullock's family and that he (Mr Bullock) was a popular figure. When he was cross-examined during the trial, Mr Abbes broke down in tears and declared his innocence.

Outside the court, Mr Abbes said: "I am relieved I am free but I feel sorry for Lemy Bullock's family.

"I knew I was innocent from the start and I just want to be left in peace."