Man Admits Facilitating Arms Smuggling

Explosives, Firearms Importation Charge Accepted

A 34-year-old man has pleaded guilty to playing a role in a criminal conspiracy that brought explosives, firearms, and ammunition into the country.

Guilty Plea Entered

Mark McCourt, residing in Edenerieve, Newry, Co Down, appeared before the Special Criminal Court. His defence counsel, Brendan Grehan SC, indicated that McCourt would enter pleas to six sample counts.

Between February 10, 2023, and July 19, 2024, McCourt admitted to participating in activities that knowingly aided a criminal organisation. This assistance was intended to facilitate the serious offence of importing firearms, ammunition, and explosives into the state.

Possession of Firearm Components

On July 19, 2024, at John St, Blackstick, Ardee, Co Louth, McCourt was found to be unlawfully in possession of two .233 Remington calibre barrels. These were identified as being from AR-15 pattern semi-automatic rifles, with circumstances suggesting no lawful purpose.

In addition, McCourt pleaded guilty to possessing nine assorted 9mm Luger calibre barrels, eight frames for Sig Sauer semi-automatic pistols, a frame for a Canik semi-automatic pistol, and four slides for a Sig Sauer P320 9mm Luger calibre semi-automatic pistol. These items were also found at the same location, with the evidence indicating they were not held for legitimate reasons.

Sentencing Date Set

Mr Grehan requested that a governor’s report be prepared for his client and asked for sentencing to be scheduled before the court’s term concludes. Ms Justice Karen O’Connor has ordered the report and set July 28 as the date for the sentence hearing.