27/02/2006

Two remanded in custody over weapons find

Two people from south Belfast have been remanded in custody charged with the possession of weapons and explosives.

The court heard that eight handguns, a semi-automatic rifle, 1,500 rounds of ammunition, 18 kilos of commercial explosives and a detonator were discovered at a house in Burmah Street in Belfast on Friday.

William Sharratt, 42, and Eleanor Benson, 39, denied charges of possessing firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life.

Residents were evacuated from their homes in the Burmah Street area on Friday night after Army technical officers were called in to examine the haul.

Police made four arrests, but two men were later released.

Mr Sharrat and Ms Benson were remanded in custody.

(SP/GB)

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