Crime World Episode 1299: UVF chief 'Winkie' Irvine turns to yoga in jail after sentence doubled
Dec 4, 2025
Alison Morris, a crime correspondent for the Belfast Telegraph, delves into the unusual life of ex-UVF commander Winston 'Winkie' Irvine, who now practices yoga in prison after his sentence for firearms offences was increased. She discusses his surprising transition from high-profile peacemaker to prisoner, touching on his ties with Irish and British officials. Morris explores public outcry over his dual roles and examines the current state of the UVF, including Irvine's diminished status and future within the organization.
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Guilty Plea After Weapons Found
- Winston 'Winkie' Irvine pleaded guilty after police found weapons and military-grade magazines in his car following a June 2022 stop.
- Alison Morris describes his early lighter sentence as based on glowing references from political figures that later provoked public outcry.
Peacemaker Image Masked Deception
- Irvine cultivated relationships with Irish and British officials and used references to present himself as a peacemaker.
- Alison Morris argues those references acted as mitigation but may have masked deception and benefited him financially.
Hoax Bomb During Political Visit
- A convincing hoax bomb was placed in a van used in a political visit which caused panic and evacuation during Simon Coveney's visit.
- PSNI blamed the Shankill UVF's B Company, then commanded by Irvine, for the hoax tied to Windsor Framework tensions.