Two people have been charged following an investigation by the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit into transportation of firearms into the UK. 

Ian Claughton, 58, and Lesley Claughton, 57, both of Brierley Road, Barnsley, have been charged with bringing a realistic firearm into the UK, two counts of possession with intent to supply class B drugs, possession of a firearm and being concerned with production of class B drugs. 

Ian Claughton has also been charged with setting a man trap with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm. They have both been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Sheffield Magistrates court today (Friday 10 May).  

On Wednesday 8 May, officers from YHROCU supported by the NCA and South Yorkshire Police executed a number of warrants on Brierley Road, Grimethorpe in South Yorkshire.  

During the course of the searches, officers found a number of suspicious items at one of the properties, which resulted in the Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team (EOD) and Military Ordnance Disposal (MOD) team being deployed and a 100m cordon was put in place as a precautionary measure.  

The suspicious items were removed from the property on Wednesday and the area was deemed safe for residents to return to their homes. 

Detective Chief Inspector Al Burns, from the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit, said: “First of all I would like to express my gratitude to our partners at South Yorkshire Police and the NCA, but most importantly the community in Grimethorpe whose patience and support was greatly appreciated whilst we conducted our enquiries.  

“Both people involved have now been charged with serious offences and will be appearing at court today. Our investigation will remain ongoing.”