A 42-year-old man appeared in court in Belfast today charged with firearms andexplosives offences.
Mr Michael Close, an unemployed man of no fixed abode, was charged with possessing on August 19th a rifle, revolver, a converted replica semi-automatic pistol and assorted ammunition with intent to endanger life.
He was also charged with possession of explosive substances including black and yellow powder on the same date.
A detective sergeant told Belfast Magistrates' Court that, when the charges were put to him, Mr Close made no reply. The detective said he believed he could connect the accused with the charges.
Questioned by Mr Close's solicitor, the detective confirmed evidence included a fingerprint match on a plastic shopping bag which contained blank cartridges. The other items were found in the boot of a car, which the solicitor pointed out was found in someone else's driveway.
He said that person had already been charged in relation to the offence. The solicitor said his client would be applying for High Court bail.
Close was remanded in custody to reappear by video link on December 12th.
PA