Bail for man accused of acting as 'courier' for Russian handgun
A YOUNG man charged with possession of a Russian handgun and ammunition in a car that was stopped in north Dublin is alleged to have been acting as a "courier", a court heard.
Michael Hanney (22) was granted bail when he appeared before Dublin District Court on firearms charges.
Mr Hanney, of Marewood Crescent, Ballymun, is charged with unlawful possession of a Makarov 9mm handgun and ammunition.
The offences are alleged to have happened at Carton Way, Ballymun, on Monday.
Judge Michael Coghlan remanded him on bail until September, subject to conditions.
Gda Liam Mangan told the court he arrested the defendant at Coolock Garda Station on Tuesday.
When the charges were put to him after caution, he made no reply.
Gda Mangan objected to bail due to the seriousness of the charges.
Defence solicitor Michael Kelleher said "the height of what is alleged is he was in the role of a courier rather than anything more sinister".
"That is what we are led to believe," said Gda Mangan.
The accused was the main carer for his ill mother and brother, the solicitor added.
Gda Mangan also agreed that during the accused's detention and questioning, nothing was raised in relation to his being a flight risk or leaving the jurisdiction.
Mr Hanney's family was "of small means", but his mother was in court with €400 for bail.
"He is very mindful of his obligations to his family," Mr Kelleher said.
Gda Mangan said the directions of the DPP were needed and that there would be further charges.
passport
Judge Coghlan granted bail in Mr Hanney's own bond of €300 and a surety of €400, with no cash required.
Conditions are that he surrenders his passport, signs on three times a week at Ballymun Garda Station and has no contact with a co-accused.
A second man arrested in the same incident has been released without charge and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public prosecutions.