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13/11/2014
L'Derry Man Sentenced Over Mortars Transportation
A man from L'Derry has been sentenced to twelve years in prison after being caught driving a van containing mortars through the city last year.
37-year-old Seamus McLaughlin of Eastway Gardens admitted possession of explosives with intent to endanger life and having articles for terrorist purposes.
The charges came after police stopped a white van being driven by Mr McLaughlin on the Letterkenny Road on 3 March 2013. Inside the van officers found an improvised mortar system, including four launch tubes, propelling units and mortar bombs. They also found a timing device and another device designed to destroy the van.
Mr McLaughlin was wearing gloves and plastic overshoes at the time. Police said a hole had been cut in the roof of the van to allow mortars to be fired, but this had been covered over with paper to give an appearance of normality.
He was jailed for 12 years with a further five years on licence.
Detective Superintendent Kevin Geddes, from Serious Crime Branch, said: "Police actions have undoubtedly saved lives on this occasion. At the time, there was considerable disruption to the local community as more than 100 homes had to be evacuated in the clearance operation.
"We will continue to work to bring before the courts any individual who involves themselves in terrorist activity. The streets of Derry and elsewhere are undoubtedly safer today as a result of our investigation. We would ask for continued community support as we work to keep everyone safe."
(IT/CD)
37-year-old Seamus McLaughlin of Eastway Gardens admitted possession of explosives with intent to endanger life and having articles for terrorist purposes.
The charges came after police stopped a white van being driven by Mr McLaughlin on the Letterkenny Road on 3 March 2013. Inside the van officers found an improvised mortar system, including four launch tubes, propelling units and mortar bombs. They also found a timing device and another device designed to destroy the van.
Mr McLaughlin was wearing gloves and plastic overshoes at the time. Police said a hole had been cut in the roof of the van to allow mortars to be fired, but this had been covered over with paper to give an appearance of normality.
He was jailed for 12 years with a further five years on licence.
Detective Superintendent Kevin Geddes, from Serious Crime Branch, said: "Police actions have undoubtedly saved lives on this occasion. At the time, there was considerable disruption to the local community as more than 100 homes had to be evacuated in the clearance operation.
"We will continue to work to bring before the courts any individual who involves themselves in terrorist activity. The streets of Derry and elsewhere are undoubtedly safer today as a result of our investigation. We would ask for continued community support as we work to keep everyone safe."
(IT/CD)
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