Loyalist 'was charged for political reasons'

A top loyalist accused of conspiracy to murder told police he was being charged for political reasons, a court heard today.

Mark Fulton was remanded in custody after being arrested by detectives investigating the killing of human rights solicitor Rosemary Nelson in Northern Ireland almost three years ago.

Fulton, 41, unemployed, of Hobson Park, Portadown, Co Armagh, was a close associate of assassinated Loyalist Volunteer Force chief Billy Wright.

He faces a charge unconnected with Mrs Nelson’s death in a booby trap bomb planted by terrorists in Lurgan, Co Armagh in March 1999.

He has been accused of conspiring to murder Rodney Jennett sometime between April 1 and May 11 2001.

Detective Sergeant Richard Harkness told Craigavon Magistrates Court that when charged the loyalist replied: ‘‘Most definitely not guilty. I’m being charged purely for political reasons and political reasons only.’’

Heavily tattooed and wearing a short-sleeved shirt, Fulton spoke only to confirm his name during the five-minute hearing.

He waved to supporters in the public gallery and gave a thumbs up signal as he was being led away.

Fulton was remanded in custody until December 13 and legal aid was granted for a High Court bail application.