Man remanded over plot to kill NI police officers

A man wanted over a plot to kill police officers in a mortar bomb attack in Northern Ireland has been remanded in custody.

Authorities have requested the extradition of Ryan McKenna from the Republic in connection with the incident in Lurgan, Co Armagh, five years ago.

The High Court in Dublin heard the 24-year-old, who is originally from Lurgan, was wanted in relation to terrorist offences to which three co-accused have already pleaded guilty.

He is accused of conspiracy to cause an explosion in Lurgan in 2007.

The extradition request is in relation to a bomb plot blamed on the Continuity IRA. A live mortar, complete with launching tube, was found near the Cornakinnegar Road on April 5th, 2007 outside Lurgan.

The device was designed to be fired horizontally.

Mr McKenna also faces a charge of possession of an explosive with intent to endanger life or property, and possession of an explosive in suspicious circumstances.

Det Sgt John McElroy said he arrested Mr McKenna in the village of Cross, Co Mayo, where he has been living, at 8.10pm last night and brought him to Galway Garda station.

Members of the McKenna family were in court and called his name as he appeared in navy work clothes.

Mr Justice John Edwards remanded him in custody until Friday.