02/09/2003

Loyalists linked to guns and ammunition find

Guns and ammunition, thought to be the property of loyalist paramilitaries, have been uncovered by police in Co Antrim.

The discovery of a shotgun, cartridges and two handgun magazines were made following the search of a derelict house in the Ballee area of Ballymena on Monday.

SDLP representative, Sean Farren welcomed the operation saying the discovery may have saved lives.

"This find is a stark reminder of the deadly intentions and capabilities of loyalist paramilitaries. The police must continue their crackdown on loyalist paramilitaries to ensure that these people are prosecuted and their deadly business is closed down for good."

Elsewhere in the town, police have said that a shebeen uncovered in the area at the weekend may also have been the work of loyalists.

A makeshift bar was found by police officers after they raided premises at Drumtara on Saturday night.

(MB)

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