Seized weapons details released

Police say the weapons were "loaded and ready for use"

Police have released details of weapons found on Belfast's loyalist Shankill Road on Wednesday night.

Officers found the cache of weapons which included an Uzi sub machine gun, a VZ58P assault rifle, three hand guns and a semi-automatic shotgun at Nelson Court.

In a statement, the police said the guns were loaded and ready for use. They added that a quantity of ammunition along with a balaclava and woollen and latex gloves were also found.

Police observed two cars acting suspiciously at Canmore Street at about 2240 BST and gave chase to the occupants of the cars on foot.

Six arrests were made subsequently in the Nelson Court area. However, those held were later released.

Explosives recovered

The weapons are believed of a type used by the Ulster Volunteer Force which is currently engaged in a feud with the Ulster Freedom Fighters.

Police also recovered commercial explosives weighing approximately 3 lbs in searches at Glenfarne Street on Thursday.

They were following up reports of suspicious activity in the area and said the search began at midday and went on for five hours.

The explosives are believed to be linked to the UFF/UDA.

Security forces are expected to strengthen their operation in the Shankill area on Thursday night.