A 43-year-old man has appeared in court on explosives and terrorism charges following a major firearms haul found on a farm in Kinawley.
Barry Francis Petticrew, of Drumbroghas in Swanlinbar, Co Cavan, spoke only to confirm his name and that he understood the charges against him when he appeared before Enniskillen Magistrates Court.
Petticrew was arrested last Wednesday after police officers investigating dissident republican activity found weapons in Kinawley close to the border.
He is accused of being in possession of explosive devices, firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life and possession of articles likely to be used in terrorism, namely forensic suits which gave rise to reasonable suspicion that he had them in connection with the commission and preparation in an act of terrorism.
During the brief court appearance, a detective said police could connect him to the charges.
Petticrew, who is being represented by solicitor Peter Corrigan, did not apply for bail.
Dressed in a navy jumper and jeans, Petticrew smiled towards the public gallery as he was led from the dock.
District Judge Nigel Broderick remanded him in custody and he is to appear before Enniskillen Crown Court on November 10.
A police spokesman explained that the following items had been recovered: .
Approximately 500kg of fertilizer and a number of packs of home made explosives .
Timer units, detonators and fuses
Six pipe bombs and component parts for other devices
A suspected firearm and approximately 100 rounds of ammunition
Forensic suits and gloves
Detective Superintendent Kevin Geddes said: “Firstly I would like to thank the members of the public in the Kinawley area for their patience whilst my officers carried out a professional, policing operation over a number of days which has recovered a quantity of munitions.
“The items we have recovered have the potential to cause injury, damage and death, and Northern Ireland is a safer place with these items beyond the reach of the dangerous individuals who would seek to use them.”
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