One time top loyalist to face Lisburn Magistrates’ Court this morning

A one time senior loyalist has been charged with possession of a firearm silencer and ammunition with intent.

The 48-year-old was arrested in Cumbria in England on Thursday under Section 41 of the Terrorism Act.

It was part of an investigation by the PSNI’s Terrorist Investigation Unit into loyalist paramilitary activity.

He was flown back to Belfast and taken to the serious crime suite at Musgrave PSNI station in Belfast for questioning.

He was charged by police on Friday night.

The former leading loyalist is to face Lisburn Magistrates’ Court this morning for a first remand hearing.