Limerick man charged with illegal possession of submachine gun and ammunition

David Raleigh

A man appeared before a court in Limerick on Thursday charged with the illegal possession of a submachine gun and ammunition.

Willie Woodland (31), of Shanabooly Road, Ballynanty, Limerick, had the gun and ammunition at his home address on Tuesday, September 3rd, it was alleged.

Mr Woodland was charged with being in possession of a 9x18mm Makarov calibre Rak make model PM63 submachine-gun for an unlawful purpose. He is also accused of having a quantity of 9x18mm Makrov calibre ammunition for an unlawful purpose.

Evidence of arrest, charge, and caution, was presented to the court by certificate.

Mr Woodland did not speak during the brief court hearing and no evidence of the allegations was heard.

Garda Laura Lyons gave evidence that Detective Garda Sean O’Hagan arrested Mr Woodland and charged him.

The accused made no reply to the charges, the court heard.

Garda Sergeant Sean Murray made an application before the court for Mr Woodland to be remanded in custody until next week “for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions”.

Solicitor Sarah Ryan was assigned to represent Mr Woodland, who was granted free legal aid.

Ms Ryan said she was not applying for bail.

Judge Carol Anne Coolican granted Sgt Murray’s application, and remanded Mr Woodland in custody to appear before Limerick District Court via video-link on September 10th for DPP directions.