Bus builder manager in court over ‘terrorist’ accusation
Darren Leslie Richardson, aged 30, of Moneynick Road, Randalstown, Co Antrim, was yesterday charged with being a member of the outlawed Ulster Volunteer Force.
Richardson was also accused of possessing a quantity of 9mm ammunition at the depot.
Last week Transport Minister Martin Cullen and DUP leader Rev Dr Ian Paisley were at the Wrightbus base to announce a deal for 48 buses for Bus Éireann and a prototype electric bus for Dublin Bus.
The visit by Mr Cullen and Dr Paisley as well as civic dignitaries was hailed by trade union leaders as well as Sinn Féin as a sign of growing co-operation.
It is not known whether Richardson met Mr Cullen or Dr Paisley during the visit, which came as a result of growing ties between the Republic and Northern Ireland following devolution.
Last night Wrightbus announced it had called in the police after receiving information from an “anonymous source” and had given every assistance to the Police Service of Northern Ireland throughout its investigation.
“Wrightbus has an active policy of promoting a neutral working environment for all its employees and the company’s senior management continues in its determination to ensure that this policy is put into practice,” the company said.
Richardson also faced an additional charge of possessing documents likely to be of use to terrorists when he appeared before a justice in Larne, Co Antrim.
A detective constable told the court that when he charged Richardson after 2am yesterday morning he had replied: “Definitely not guilty.”
However, the detective said he believed he could connect the accused to the charges.
In reply to a defence solicitor, the officer confirmed Richardson had been questioned over two days and had co-operated with one exception.
Richardson was remanded in custody until his next appearance on May 3.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
