Replica Guns Haul Man 'In RAAD'

An alleged member of the paramilitary group Republican Action Against Drugs was refused bail after a court heard that blank-firing revolvers and four replica AK47s were seized from his home.

The BBC reports that Liam Martin McDonnell, 26, of Rinmore Drive, Londonderry is charged with possessing a firearm with intent and possession of articles for use in terrorism.

He handed himself in to police last week, telling them the items belonged to him.

Police found camouflage jackets, balaclavas, an army-style uniform and a two-way radio when they searched his home on July 12.

The weapons had been adapted to fire ball bearings, they said.

But Mr McDonnell said he was a collector of outdoor activity gear and often gave it away to neighbours at Halloween.

He said he collected replica guns as a hobby and denied involvement with any illegal organisations.

A prosecution barrister opposed his bail application, saying police believed Mr McDonnell was an "active and prominent member" of Republican Action Against Drugs, a vigilante group that has been involved in shootings and one murder in the north west of Northern Ireland.

But a defence lawyer stressed these allegations were "hotly disputed", and his client was not being charged with membership of any outlawed group.

Mr Justice McCloskey focused on the alleged link between McDonnell and RAAD, holding that it was sustained on the basis of evidence heard so far.

He refused bail, saying: "The court would not be acting in the real world if it were to form any other view at this stage."

(NE)