Man on terror charges after searches in the North

A man was tonight charged with terrorist offences following a security operation in Co Armagh allegedly linked to dissident republicans.

The 35-year-old was charged with possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, possession of an explosive substance and possession of a balaclava.

The charges followed a two day security search operation in the Craigavon area during which explosives were recovered and computers and other articles likely to be of use to terrorists were found – including a shotgun and ammunition.

A total of nine people were arrested. The PSNI said seven had been released without charge and an eighth released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.

The 35-year-old charged is due to appear before Craigavon Magistrates Court in the morning, said a police spokesman.