Explosives, guns cache possibly linked to Irish terrorism found on the Isle of Wight

No indication of current criminal activity, authorities say

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Police search undergrowth in Parkhurst Forest Photo: Darren Toogood

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Police have confirmed that items found in Parkhurst Forest on the Isle of Wight on August 24 are in fact a cache of guns, explosives, and ammunition that could be linked to Northern Irish terrorists.

The Isle of Wight County Press reports on the cache that was found by a dog walker who reported it to authorities. Though police initially declined to comment on what the items were, they confirmed on Thursday that they were in fact varied weapons.

Police confirmed to the County Press that the items which were discovered included two guns, ammunition and what are believed to be two improvised incendiary devices.

“It is clear from the initial examination of these items that they have been there for several years,” authorities said.

"It is possible they are linked to historic Northern Ireland-related terrorism and for this reason the South East Counter Terrorism Unit is now leading the investigation with support from officers of the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Serious Crime Branch.

"There is no indication that the find relates to any current criminal activity," said a spokesman.

The Isle of Wight held several IRA criminals in its prisons during the 1970s and 80s. Among those to be held there was Michael Gaughan, who died at Parkhurst in 1974 following a hunger strike. The 1980s saw a number of protests held by IRA supporters outside the jails.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is now working with authorities from the Isle of Wight regarding the matter.
 

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