The Five Demands

Duffy charged with IRA membership (UTV)

Leading republican Colin Duffy has appeared in court charged with IRA membership.

He was one of three men arrested in Belfast and Lurgan, Co Armagh on Sunday by police investigating dissident republican terrorist activity.

Duffy, 47 and of Forestglade, Lurgan, appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday charged with being a member of the IRA from 1 January 2013 until Monday 16 December 2013.

Meanwhile, Henry Fitzsimons, 46 and of no fixed address, and Alex McCrory, 52 and of Sliabh Dubh View, west Belfast are both charged with possessing firearms with intent to endanger life.

The charges relate to an incident in north Belfast earlier this month when shots were fired at a police patrol.

The defendants waved and smiled at a group of supporters inside the court and did not stand when asked by the court nor did they answer to the charges.

They have been remanded in custody until 14 January when they will appear before videolink.

Meanwhile, two people were arrested amid scuffles outside the court on Tuesday.

Police said a 32-year-old man was detained on suspicion of disorderly behaviour, assault on police and resisting police, while another man aged 33 was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour and assault on police.

A spokesperson added: “Both men are currently assisting police with their enquiries.”