Newry Gun Case: Terror Links See Two Men Jailed
Shane Stevenson, 35, and Paul McKerr, 54, have been handed prison sentences at Newry Crown Court for firearms offences and possession of potential terrorist information. The duo faced tough charges tied to a 2018 incident involving suspected New IRA activity.
Stevenson Gets 16 Months Plus Terrorism Act Restrictions
Stevenson, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced to 16 months behind bars. He will also serve an extra 12 months on supervised release. On top of this, Stevenson must comply with notification rules under the Counter Terrorism Act 2008 for the next decade.
His charges included:
- Possessing firearms in suspicious circumstances
- Holding firearms without a licence
- Attempting to possess information useful to terrorists
McKerr Locked Up for Nine Months
Paul McKerr, also previously convicted for similar gun offences, received a nine-month prison term for his role in the case.
Police Crack Down After Weapons Haul in Lurgan
The saga began on 21 February 2018, when officers stopped a van in Lurgan driven by McKerr, with Stevenson as passenger. Inside, they found 22 empty magazines for AK47/AKM rifles. At Stevenson’s home, detectives uncovered two handwritten notes hidden inside a flask insulating cavity. These notes detailed sightings of vehicles at Lurgan Police Station throughout February.
“Forensic evidence was pivotal,” said Detective Superintendent Griffin from the Terrorism Investigation Unit. “The recovered magazines were covered in an oily residue matching gloves found in the van. DNA linked those gloves directly to both men. The notes were also confirmed as Stevenson’s handwriting via DNA and fingerprints.”
Griffin warned the firearms were believed to be en route for the New IRA’s terrorist plans. The surveillance notes exposed an active targeting of police.
Authorities Urge Public to Come Forward
Detective Superintendent Griffin stressed law enforcement’s commitment to stopping terrorism and urged anyone with information to call 101. Tips can also be given anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
