Three men remanded in custody following police chase

Three men, who were arrested in Magherafelt town on Friday afternoon following a police chase, have been remanded into custody.

The men, who have been named as Henry Purcell, John Saunders and Edward Connors, appeared before Belfast Magistrates Court this morning.

It is understood that police stopped the BMW vehicle they were travelling in at King Street, Magherafelt shortly before 1pm on Friday.

It is alleged that two of the males made off in the vehicle, but were apprehended by police and arrested following a police chase.

Two police cars and another vehicle were damaged during the incident, however police have confirmed that no injuries were sustained by police officers or the driver of the other vehicle.

All three men have been charged with going equipped for theft, namely having in their possession gloves.

55 year-old Purcell, whose address was given as Whitewell Road, Newtownabbey is further charged with a catalogue of motoring offences including dangerous driving and failing to stop, remain and report an accident.

Connors (23), of Labre Park, Clondalkin, Dublin faces a second charge of burglary with attempt to steal.

39 year-old Saunders, of no fixed abode, faces a single charge of going equipped for theft.

The case was adjourned for police to continue their investigations.

All three defendants were remanded into custody.