Serving PSNI officer charged over alleged ammunition theft

A serving Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) officer has been charged with a series of firearm-related offences as part of an investigation into the alleged theft of ammunition from the police estate.

Detectives from the PSNI Serious Crime Branch confirmed that a 63-year-old officer has been charged with multiple offences, including theft of ammunition, possession of ammunition in suspicious circumstances, possession of prohibited ammunition, and possessing ammunition without a certificate.

The officer also faces additional charges relating to taking a vehicle without consent and making or supplying articles for use in frauds.

In line with standard procedure, all charges are set to be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS).

Deputy Chief Constable Bobby Singleton said the investigation underlined the seriousness with which the organisation treats allegations of criminal behaviour by serving officers.

“The public rightly expect and demand the highest standards of professionalism and integrity from their police officers. These values are fundamental to public trust and police legitimacy,” he said.

DCC Singleton stressed that any suspected breach of those standards—particularly alleged criminal activity—would be thoroughly examined.

“Where any officers conduct is alleged to fall short of these standards, particularly where criminal activity is suspected, we will, as this case demonstrated investigate fully and without fear or favour,” he added.

He noted the particular seriousness of the material allegedly taken.

“The sensitivity of the material which is alleged to have been stolen by this officer is obvious and makes their alleged actions all the more egregious.”

The PSNI has also launched a review into the full circumstances surrounding the incident, with consideration being given to fast-tracking a misconduct special case hearing in parallel with the criminal proceedings.

“As in every case a review is underway into all the circumstances surrounding this incident. We will now consider the suitability of this case for a fast track misconduct special case hearing alongside criminal proceedings,” Mr Singleton said.