Seven due in Newry court over dissident republican activity

Seven men are due in court in Newry today charged with what police have described as “significant and serious terrorist offences”.

The men aged between 30 and 75, were charged last night following arrests made last week by police investigating violent dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland.

All seven have been charged with membership of a proscribed organisation, while six face charges of conspiracy to possess explosives with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life and preparation for acts of terrorism.

Five of the men are also charged with directing terrorism.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Geddes, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Serious Crime Branch, said: “These charges follow the arrest of 12 men in the Ardcarn Park area of Newry on the evening of Monday 10 November as part of a proactive investigation into violent dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland.

“Earlier this week five of the men were released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.

“The arrest and charging of these individuals with what are very serious terrorist offences clearly demonstrates our commitment to investigate all those involved in terrorism. The public should be reassured that we will take every opportunity to bring before the courts any individual who involves themselves in terrorist activity.”

The men are due to appear at Newry Magistrates’ Court.