Gun Smuggler Caught Trying to Ship Deadly Weapons from US to Northern Ireland
William McMullan, 66, from Newtownards, got nabbed after trying to mail parts of an automatic weapon, a revolver, and a self-loading pistol from the US to his home in Northern Ireland. The National Crime Agency (NCA) swooped in after Border Force officers spotted the deadly packages at Coventry International Postal Hub back in November 2019.
Holiday Shopping Turns Illegal Firearms Shipment
McMullan admitted to buying the firearms while on holiday in America and shipping them back in secret. Facing Downpatrick Crown Court on 12 September, he pleaded guilty to importing illegal firearms.
On 20 September, the court handed him a 10-month prison sentence – suspended for 12 months, sparing him jail time for now.
Authorities Warn: These Guns Could’ve Caused Mass Havoc
“These firearms could have caused mass casualties in the wrong hands,” said NCA Belfast Branch Commander David Cunningham. “The AR-15 is a military-style rifle linked to high-profile US mass shootings. There is no place for weapons like these in Northern Ireland.”
“McMullan was foolish to think he’d get away with it. We work closely with Border Force to stop illegal guns reaching our streets.”
Phillip Holliday, Border Force Central Regional Director, added: “Firearms fuel organised crime and ruin lives. We’re committed to keeping the public safe and our borders secure – and we won’t stop.”
