North Antrim UDA: Gun seized 'may be linked to attacks'

A home-made gun was among the items seized by police

A home-made gun and ammunition found by police on Monday "are similar to those used in recent shooting attacks" in north Antrim, police have said.

Five people were arrested during searches in the Ballymoney, Limavady and Coleraine areas.

Police said the searches were part of an investigation into "violent criminal activity" linked to the north Antrim UDA.

A woman, aged 52, and four men, aged 38, 43, 47 and 50, remain in custody.

Cash, several mobile devices, suspected illegal cigarettes, more than 50 balaclava masks and a vehicle were also seized.

Det Ch Insp Brennan, from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force, said: "We believe the weapon and ammunition recovered are similar to those used in recent shooting attacks against members of the north Antrim community.

"The seizure has undoubtedly frustrated the activity of individuals who attempt to control communities through intimidation and fear of violence.

"Today's operation is part of an ongoing investigation into the activities of those who we suspect have been engaged in a range of violent incidents including multiple shootings, assaults and incidents involving the use of explosive materials, which have caused grave injuries to a number of people and had the potential to cause loss of life."