25/03/2003

Two deny charges over arms find

Two men who are charged with possession of weapons and explosives with intent to endanger life have both denied the charges at Belfast Crown Court today.

Stephen Harte, 33, from Dermot Hill Parade, and Francis Mackin, 42, of Sultan Way, both in west Belfast, pleaded not guilty.

The two men - and a third man who was later released without charge - were arrested on Saturday night.

An assault rifle, six hand guns, five timer power units and thousands of rounds of assorted ammunition were recovered by police during a planned search of a warehouse at Essex Street in south Belfast.

Superintendent Ken Deane described the find as "significant".

Police have said that the nature and location of the arms recovered would suggest a link to the Provisional IRA.

(GMcG)

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