A former Ryanair pilot has been remanded in custody in the Republic of Ireland after being charged in connection with the seizure of more than €10 million (£8.5 million) worth of herbal cannabis.
Brendan O’Meara, aged 62, with an address at An Tulach, Summer Hill, Meelick, County Clare, appeared before a special sitting of the district court in Ennis on Saturday. He faces charges of possession of a controlled drug and possession for sale or supply, following a major drugs operation at his residence on 7 May.
A bail application put forward by O’Meara’s solicitor was rejected after gardaí strongly objected, citing him as a “high flight risk”. A garda officer told Judge Marie Keane that the accused posed a serious risk of absconding, and revealed that additional, more serious charges were likely to follow as investigations continue.
Judge Keane agreed with the prosecution, refusing bail due to concerns about Mr O’Meara’s potential to flee and the anticipated escalation of charges.
O’Meara was remanded in custody and is scheduled to reappear before the court via video link on 14 May.
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