Man due in court on terrorism charge

A man was due in court today accused of possessing terrorist-related material following an investigation into an abduction in Northern Ireland.

Brendan Rice, 38, was seized at his home in Newcastle, Co Down at the weekend by a gang of masked men.

It is believed Mr Rice was beaten before being bundled into a white van and driven away. He was released on Sunday.

A police spokeswoman last night confirmed a 20-year-old man from Castlewellan, Co Down has been charged with possession of articles for terrorist purposes.

It is understood the charge relates to the weekend abduction.

The man was due to appear before Newtownards magistrates in Co Down today.