Man charged with terrorism offences

He has been charged with five offences, including preparatory acts of terrorism, possession of articles for use in terrorism as well as three separate charges of possession of explosive devices with intent to endanger life.

The man is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court today (Friday, May 14). As is normal procedure all charges are reviewed by the PPS.

The charges are in connection with the discovery of improvised explosive devices at Ballyquin Road, Dungiven on April 19, 2021 and Skeoge Road, Londonderry on July 9, 2016, and the discovery of an improvised mortar bomb device at Church View, Strabane on September 7, 2019.

He was arrested in Derry/Londonderry on Wednesday in connection with the attempted murder of a female member of police staff, who is also a part time police officer, following the discovery of a viable explosive device beside the young mother’s car in Ballyquin Road, Dungiven on Monday, April 19 and as part of Op Ledging, targeting the New IRA’s bomb making activities as well as the group’s storage of explosive devices and equipment.

Two other men, aged 23 and 62, arrested in Derry/Londonderry on Wednesday in connection with the attempted murder of a female member of police staff, who is also a part time police officer in Dungiven have been released following questioning as the investigation continues.