Two men sentenced for firearm offences in Belfast and Larne

Two men have been sentenced at Belfast Crown Court today for a range of serious firearm offences, following an investigation by the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) Serious Crime Branch.

Winston Irvine, 49, from north Belfast, and Robin Workman, 54, from the Larne area, both previously entered guilty pleas relating to multiple weapons charges. Their sentencing follows an incident in June 2022 that led to the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Irvine was sentenced to two and a half years’ imprisonment, to be divided equally between time in custody and on licence. He admitted to possession of a firearm and ammunition in suspicious circumstances, two counts of possession of a handgun, possession of ammunition and magazines without a certificate, and possession of a prohibited weapon.

Workman, who faced the same set of charges, also pleaded guilty to an additional charge of possession of an air rifle without a certificate. He received a statutory five-year sentence, again with half to be served in custody and half on licence.

PSNI Investigation and Arrests

Detective Superintendent Gillian Moutray, of the PSNI’s Serious Crime Branch, explained how the operation unfolded.

“Irvine was arrested following a stop and search in the Disraeli Street area of north Belfast area on Wednesday, 8th June 2022. Prior to this he had been observed meeting a man, later identified as Workman, in the Glencairn area. Here, Workman placed a bag in the boot of Irvine’s car.”

“When Irvine’s vehicle was searched, the bag was found to contain a number of suspected firearms, ammunition and magazines for an assault rifle.”

A subsequent search of Workman’s residence led officers to discover an illegally-held air rifle, further strengthening the case against him.

Strong Message on Firearms

Detective Superintendent Moutray emphasised the serious risk posed by illegal weapons in Northern Ireland and reiterated the PSNI’s commitment to public safety.

“Illegal firearms are synonymous with violence.”

“We want to reiterate that the possession or use of firearms, imitation or otherwise, is unacceptable in any modern society.”

“We are committed to apprehending perpetrators and this demonstrates our commitment towards keeping people safe from the fear, intimidation and control illegal firearms can cause.”

Appeal to the Public

The PSNI has urged the public to assist in its efforts to tackle illegal weapon possession by reporting any relevant information.

“Anyone with information, or concerns, about firearms should contact us on 101, or 999 in an emergency.”

Reports can also be made online via the PSNI’s reporting form, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.