A County Armagh man, Damien Harte (51) from Lurgan, has sentenced at Belfast Crown Court after being found guilty of terrorism offences following a trial.

Mr Harte received a sentence of 5 years and 3 months imprisonment for three firearms-related terrorism charges. He will also serve a further year on licence following his release and will be subject to a Terrorism Notification Order for 15 years.

The charges against Mr Harte involved possession and attempted possession of articles for use in terrorism:

• Two charges related to the possession of articles—a handwritten speech and a handwritten note—in circumstances that gave rise to a reasonable suspicion that possession was for a purpose connected with the commission, preparation, or instigation of an act of terrorism.

• The third charge related to the attempted possession of an article, specifically a component part for a Webley Revolver, in circumstances connected with an act of terrorism. Detective Sergeant Allen confirmed that the investigation began in June 2017 as part of an ongoing investigation into dissident republican activity. A search of Harte’s home led to the seizure of a mobile phone, which revealed an internet search history relating to the attempted purchase of firearm component parts.

A subsequent search in October 2017 uncovered the handwritten speech and a letter containing information about firearms, including instructions on how to convert a weapon.

Detective Sergeant Allen stated that the Terrorism Investigation Unit remains committed to investigating and disrupting terrorist activity, and encouraged anyone with information or concerns to contact police on 101.

A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org