Man in court over 'republican list'

A 38-year-old man is due before Derry magistrates today charged with possession of information likely to be of use to terrorists.

The charges relate to the discovery by police of personal details of republicans, including Sinn Fein national chairman Mitchel McLaughlin.

The man was stopped by police on Friday.

Mr McLaughlin was one of a number of republicans contacted by police in Derry on Saturday and advised to review their security.

“There was a number of people contacted last night and told that a senior loyalist had been arrested with their details in his possession,” said a Sinn Fein spokesman.

Sources in Derry said the arrested man is a leading member of the Ulster Political Research Group (UPRG).

The UPRG which was formed last year, is linked to the largest loyalist paramilitary organisation, the Ulster Defence Association.

UPRG spokesman John White expressed surprise at the arrest of a colleague.

“Obviously we will have to wait and see what comes of it,” he said.

“He has certainly made a very positive contribution and I would be very surprised if he was involved in any illegal activity,” he added.