Gardaí believe 10 men detained in Cork last month involved in ‘sophisticated’ operation run by an international crime group
Gardaí arrested 10 men on March 14th last in Tragumna, Co Cork and charged them with conspiring to import drugs into Ireland. Photograph: Dave MeehanA powerful 40-ft inflatable boat was extensively modified with “stealth capabilities” to ferry a crew from west Cork to meet a “mothership” at sea and return laden with drugs, the High Court has heard.
Ms Justice O’Connor said she was not satisfied she could grant them bail after hearing evidence and lengthy submissions from defence and prosecution lawyers. She noted that gardaí believe the incident was part of a “sophisticated” operation by an international crime group.Mr Curran said he would reside in the State at a family member’s property, adding: “I have no reason to run.” He said he had driven a lorry and was only doing his job.
The inspector claimed the 10 defendants loaded the RIB using a winch on to a modified trailer and into the truck. The truck got stuck due to the slant on the pier and was towed by the Land Rover and camper van. The court heard the RIB originated in Portugal and was brought via the Netherlands to Rosslare and from there to a yard in Omagh, Co Tyrone, where Mr Curran worked. Insp O’Connell said it had been “extensively modified” in Omagh and had “stealth capabilities”.
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