Irishman denies explosives charge in Lithuania

An Irish citizen on trial in Lithuania on charges of trying to purchase illegal weapons and explosives says he is not guilty and that he was provoked by undercover agents.

Alleged IRA dissident Michael Campbell told a court today in his final statement before the trial closes that he was a victim of entrapment by Lithuanian and British agents.

He says Lithuanian prosecutors falsified his testimony to build a case against him.

The 39-year-old Campbell was arrested in January 2008 after allegedly handing around €10,000 to an undercover agent posing as a weapons supplier.

He faces a 16-year prison sentence if found guilty.

Judge Arunas Kisielius says a verdict will be handed down October 21.