A court has heard helicopter footage forms part of the case against four men and a 16-year-old boy accused over an alleged terrorist plot to injure a man in Belfast.
But police could not confirm whether surveillance or undercover officers were used in an operation mounted in the west of the city.
The five suspects were arrested and two guns recovered following an alleged incident on the St James' Road last Thursday.
Belfast Magistrates Court heard the youngest suspect, who cannot be identified, was a vulnerable person and "an ideal courier" of the weapons due to his age.
He is accused of possessing a 9mm handgun, revolver and ammunition in suspicious circumstances, and having a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
Charges have also been brought against Belfast men Robert O'Neill, 33, of Andersonstown Park East; Anthony Rooney, 47, from Broom Close, Dunmurry; Stephen McAllister, 40, of Moyard Crescent; and 34-year-old Sean O'Reilly.
A ban was imposed on disclosing O'Reilly's address after the court was told a threat has been issued against him.
All four men are accused of conspiracy to wound with intent, attempting to wound with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, having a firearm with criminal intent, and possessing articles for use in terrorism.
The court was told these allegedly include an extendable baton, gloves, woollen hat and a scarf.
Rooney and O'Neill are further charged with possession of a Tazer stun-gun.
A detective constable told the court he could connect all five accused with the alleged offences.
Cross-examined by a defence solicitor for O'Reilly and Rooney the officer said he was "not at liberty to say" whether an undercover surveillance operation had been used.
He was also unable to confirm whether a 999 call was made to police in connection with the incident.
The lawyer did not seek bail, but said an application would be made at a later stage.
He told the court: "Helicopter footage evidence seems to be very crucial in this case. That has been put to my clients at interview and I would expect that footage to be ready and available."
His clients were remanded in custody along with McAllister and O'Neill, who also did not apply for bail, to appear again next month.
The 16-year-old's bid to be released was opposed due to the fear of further offending and for the youth's own protection.
The detective pointed to his alleged involvement in delivering and removing of firearms, one of which he claimed was used in the attack.
"It's obvious he was an ideal courier due to his young appearance," he said.
Police also believe no suitable bail address is available within Northern Ireland, the court heard.
The officer added: "He states he was just walking along the road and a car approached him with two men he didn't know, they ask him to get in the car and subsequently he becomes involved in this terrorist operation.
"We have difficult in trying to understand why somebody would get into the car with two strangers."
Remanding the youth in custody until Friday, the District Judge adjourned his application to allow more time to resolve issues around any possible address.
© UTV News