Today we know that Stakeknife existed, and that he was Freddie Scappaticci.  

We know that Scappaticci, at the top of the IRA unit hunting informers was himself an informer for British security forces. 

But prior to the story being brought to light by journalist Liam Clarke, then at the Sunday Times, the public, and indeed the IRA, had no idea.  

There was a clear public interest in the story, but when it began to emerge M15 and MI6 went to great lengths to try to keep a lid on it – and were worried about another story Clarke was investigating, which involved Martin McGuinness. 

Formerly secret ‘Kew Files’ reveal their motivations.  

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor, Sam McBride.

The BelTel brings you some of Northern Ireland's top journalists, Allison Morris, Sam McBride and Suzanne Breen to name but a few, giving you the inside stories behind what is in the news. Presented by Ciarán Dunbar, the Bel Tel investigates, debates and informs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.