Derry man admits attending Syrian training camp

A Derry man has admitted attending a 'terrorist training camp' in Syria and taking part in battles against Isis.

Eamon Bradley of Benview Estate in Coshquin appeared before Londonderry Crown Court today for the start of his trial.

The 28 year old is charged with committing terrorist offences during the conflict in Syria nearly three years ago.

It's the first case of its kind in Northern Ireland.

Lawyers say Bradley admitted being a member of a group called 'Jaysh Al Islam' which is opposed to current Syrian government.

He admitted taking part in 'three battles' armed with an 'ak47, 3 magazines and a grenade'.

The Islam convert had travelled to Alleppo, but returned home after not feeling as content in Syria as he had hoped.

Ciaran Murphy QC said  'as a matter of law the fact the events occurred in Syria is no defence', and they can be tried here in Northern Ireland.'

Police visited Mr Bradley's mother's home in Melmore Gardens on July 3 2014 and seized her phone which contained images of Mr Bradley one of which showed him kneeling before a 'tripod of weapons'.

The trial continues.