Bryce Pounder, 38, from Newtownards, was sentenced at Belfast Crown Court on 7 July to three years in prison with a further year on licence, following a Paramilitary Crime Task Force investigation into criminality linked to the East Belfast UVF.

Pounder was convicted of possessing explosives under suspicious circumstances. He also received concurrent two-year custodial terms for possession of articles for use in terrorism and for possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances.

Detective Inspector Maguire, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Organised Crime Branch, said: "In November 2022, as part of an investigation into the criminal activities of the East Belfast UVF, police conducted a search of Bryce Pounder's east Belfast home. Here, officers located a pipe bomb, an imitation handgun, a silencer, magazine and numerous rounds of assorted handgun and rifle ammunition, as well as UVF-branded clothing." "The defendant was subsequently located at another property in east Belfast, where he was arrested under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act."

DI Maguire continued: "Pounder will now serve a custodial sentence of three years, with a further year on licence. In addition, a Serious Crime Prevention Order was granted, and the defendant will be subject to terrorist notification requirements on release.

"Paramilitary groups control communities through a regime of fear and violence. This case demonstrates the PCTF's commitment to disrupt the activities of those who would seek to exploit and control others.

"While we rely on the support of partners, we're also grateful for the support of local communities, and would encourage anyone with information, or concerns, to contact us on 101."

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, with total anonymity, on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.