Man on arms charges

A 42-year-old man has appeared in a Belfast court charged with firearms and explosives offences.

Michael Close, of no fixed address, was charged with possessing a bolt action rifle, a Webley revolver, a converted replica pistol and assorted ammunition with intent to endanger life on 19 August.

He was also charged with possessing explosive substances - black and yellow powder - in suspicious circumstances.

A detective told Belfast Magistrate's Court on Friday that when Mr Close was charged he made no reply.

The detective said he believed he could connect the accused with the charges.

Bail application

Questioned by Mr Close's solicitor, the detective confirmed evidence included a fingerprint match on a plastic shopping bag which contained blank cartridges.

The other items were found in the boot of a car, which the solicitor pointed out was found in someone else's driveway.

He said that person had already been charged in relation to the offence.

Mr Close was remanded in custody until 12 December and his solicitor said an application for bail would be made in the High Court.