Man accused of directing criminal organisation inside and outside Ireland remanded in custody

Tom Tuite

A Dublin man has been remanded in custody after gardaí charged him with directing the activities of a crime group in Ireland and outside the State.

David Callaghan, 27, of Harelawn Park, Clondalkin, was arrested at a different address in west Dublin on Wednesday morning.

It follows an investigation by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.

He was taken to Ronanstown Garda station and charged under section 71A of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 for directing the activities of a criminal organisation in and outside the State from April 2021 to February 2022.

Gardaí then brought Mr Callaghan to appear before Judge David McHugh at Blanchardstown District Court.

Detective Garda Gavin Curran gave evidence that Mr Callaghan “made no reply to the charge after caution” and was handed a copy of the charge sheet.

Detective Garda Curran added that due to the nature of the charge, Mr Callaghan would have to make a bail application in the High Court.

Defence solicitor Wayne Kenny said that was correct and confirmed that the District Court did not have jurisdiction.

Mr Callaghan, who has yet to indicate a plea, remained silent during the proceedings.

Detective Garda Curran also told the judge that there would be an application under the Bail Act section.

The cited section requires an accused to provide a full statement with personal information, including income and property ownership.

The judge noted the GNDOCB officer had put the defence on notice, and they would liaise with the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The court heard the charge was a scheduled offence, but the ultimate trial venue was not specified during Wednesday's hearing.

No further evidence was given.

Judge McHugh remanded the accused to appear at Cloverhill District Court on Friday.