INLA probe: Derryman convicted over bid to acquire lethal stun gun

DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Organised Crime Branch probing the activities of the INLA have welcomed the conviction of 45 year old Martin Barr from Derry for attempting to acquire a prohibited weapon capable of causing serious harm.

Detective Inspector Tom McClure said: “On 7 August 2018, a package was intercepted at a UK airport containing a WS-928 Heavy Duty Stun Gun intended for an address in Derry.

“Following a detailed police investigation, evidence was obtained which proved that Barr was the person who attempted to obtain this prohibited weapon, capable of causing serious harm.

“There is no good reason why anyone should wish to possess such an item unless they were intent on seriously injuring others.

“Through this investigation, we disrupted Barr’s attempt to obtain the weapon and bring it onto the streets of our city.

“This detection was part of a wider investigation into the criminal activities of the INLA in Derry, a group who claim to be the protectors of their community but in reality, use violence and intimidation to control and exploit those communities.

“Weapons like this pose a threat to everyone and anyone who brings such a weapon onto our streets does not care about their community.

“This seizure is further evidence of the PSNI’s determination to prevent serious harm and bring offenders before the courts,” added DI McClure.

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