Deal involving over €200k of heroin intercepted as gardaí find over €12k in cash in Blackrock laundry basket, court told

A transaction involving €210,000 worth of heroin was intercepted by gardaí who arrested a 43-year-old Cork woman and a 60-year-old man based in Tipperary, it was alleged, when both parties were brought before Cork District Court.

60-year-old Philip Hicks of Cois Na hAbhainn, Mullinahone, Co Tipperary, appeared before Cork District Court charged with possession of diamorphine (heroin) and having the drug for sale or supply on September 1 at Upper Convent Road, Blackrock, Cork. 

There was no objection to bail being granted in his case, Detective Garda James Byrd said. 

It was alleged that 1.5 kilos of heroin with a street value of €210,000 was seized on Wednesday evening, September 2. There was no objection to bail for Philip Hicks, on conditions, including that he would reside at the Mullinahone address, stay out of County Cork, except for court appearances and legal appointments, abide by a 9pm-9am curfew, provide gardaí with a mobile phone number at which he is contactable at all times, and sign regularly at Clonmel garda station. His case was adjourned until October 1. 

Sergeant John Dineen said directions would be required from the DPP.

43-year-old Sandra Byrne of Upper Convent Road, Blackrock, Cork, is charged with the same two counts and she is additionally charged with money laundering in respect of €12,980 cash.

Laundry basket

Detective Garda Linda O’Keeffe did object to bail being granted to Ms Byrne. As well as alleged involvement in the drugs transaction, it was alleged that her house was searched and that €12,980 in cash was found concealed under clothes in a laundry basket.

Det Garda O’Keeffe testified: “She now has a substantial drug debt to repay and I have no doubt Sandra Byrne will continue with drug activities.” Diane Hallahan, solicitor, said the seized material had yet to be forensically examined. 

Det Garda O’Keeffe said she was satisfied from the appearance and packaging that what was seized was diamorphine.

Ms Hallahan said the defendant would abide by any bail conditions required of her, if granted. Judge David Waters refused bail and remanded her in custody until September 10.