Exclusive: Inside the Capture of Illegal Weapons in Loyalist's Vehicle

Exclusive: Inside the Capture of Illegal Weapons in Loyalist's Vehicle

Police have shared images of a firearm and ammunition found in a leading loyalist's car. It comes after two men were sentenced atBelfast Crown Courtin respect of multiple firearm offences.

Winston Irvine Sentenced
At an earlier hearing, Winston Irvine, aged 49 and fromNorth Belfast, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition in suspicious circumstances, two counts of possession of a handgun, possession of ammunition and magazines without a certificate, and possession of a prohibited weapon. Today, Tuesday May 20, he was sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment with half to be served in custody and half on licence.

Robin Workman's Conviction
Robin Workman, aged 54 and from theLarnearea, also pleaded guilty to the above offences and an additional charge of possession of an air rifle without a certificate. He was sentenced to a statutory five-year sentence, with half to be served in custody and half on licence.

Investigation Details
Detective Superintendent Moutray, from thePolice Service of Northern Ireland’s Serious Crime Branch, detailed the events leading to the arrests. Irvine was apprehended following a stop and search in the Disraeli Street area of north Belfast on Wednesday, June 8, 2022. Workman was observed placing a bag in Irvine's vehicle, which upon search was found to contain suspected firearms, ammunition, and magazines for an assault rifle. A subsequent search of Workman's residence unveiled an illegally-held air rifle.

Public Safety and Reporting
Detective Superintendent Moutray emphasized the danger of illegal firearms and urged the public to report any information or concerns about firearms to the authorities. Reporting can be done by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency, using the online reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Stay informed with the latest news by visiting the Belfast Live homepage and signing up for the daily newsletter.