DISSIDENT REPUBLICAN REMANDED IN CUSTODY ACCUSED OF MURDER BID ON PRISON OFFICER

The scene of the bomb attack at Hillsborough Drive last Friday morning in east Belfast

The scene of the bomb attack at Hillsborough Drive last Friday morning in east Belfast

A TERROR suspect has faced a court today charged with trying to kill a prison officer in a lethal bomb attack in east Belfast last week.

Christopher Alphonsos Robinson, of Aspen Park in Dunmurry, County Antrim, appeared at Belfast Magistrates’ Court.

He sat yawning in the dock of the court as the charges were put to him.

The 45-year-old was also charged with possessing an improvised explosive device with intent to endanger life.

The 52-year-old officer was seriously injured when a bomb exploded under his van in Hillsborough Drive last Friday.

Heavily armed police swamped the court room to prevent any trouble as Robinson’s supporters gathered in the public gallery.

A detective constable said he could connect Mr Robinson to the charges. He refused to stand during the hearing.

When asked by the clerk if he understood the charges, Mr Robinson did not reply, but let out a loud sigh.

A defence solicitor told the court that Mr Robinson was not applying for bail, but said during 16 police interviews, “no evidence was actually put” to the defendant to link him to the attack.

Mr Robinson was remanded in custody to appear again on 1 April via video-link.

The New IRA claimed responsibility for the murder bid.

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