Accused subject to ‘execution’ threat

The man, who cannot be named, is charged with being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis and conspiracy to possess the class A and B drugs with intent to supply.

He is further charged with conspiracy to fraudulently import a class A drug between March 25 and June 15.

An investigating officer told Derry Magistrate’s Court she believed she could connect the defendant to the charges.

Under cross-examination by defence solicitor Ciaran Shiels, the officer confirmed that the evidence relates to an encrypted platform which was penetrated by law enforcement officers.

Mr Shiels told the court there would be no application for bail, but was an application for anonymity.

He said there is ‘currently a specific, direct and active threat to this man’s life from republican paramilitaries that he is to be executed on sight at a

time of their choosing, regardless of who is with him’.

The officer confirmed she was aware of the threat and confirmed there is a general threat to people accused of supplying drugs in the area.

District Judge Ted Magill granted the anonymity application and the defendant was remanded in custody until a later date.