Walking Stick 'Gun' Accused Remanded

PSNI officers on the hunt for illegal drugs near the Irish border have found firearms - including a modified walking stick - that can be turned into a gun.

This week a court has heard details as Brian McManus, 54, of Aileen Terrace, Newry, Co Down, appeared before the magistrates' court charged with firearms offences.

A prosecution lawyer said police searching a large shed at his house in the border city and found cutting machinery and component parts, along with evidence that deactivated guns had been reactivated.

Mr McManus was remanded in custody after the court heard details of the drugs operation that led to an alleged terrorist gun factory find.

Mr McManus denies a total of seven offences, including possession of firearms and ammunition with intent in the preparation of acts of terrorism, possession with intent to injure, with intent to cause fear or violence, possession under suspicious circumstances, and possession of a prohibited weapon, namely a walking stick gun.

The Newry man, who told police he had been acting under duress, is due to appear before the court again on October 25 by video link, although a bail application is to be made on his behalf next week.

(BMcC/GK)