CO WEXFORD – A 51-year-old man has been charged in connection with the seizure of cannabis valued at over €3 million at Rosslare Europort. The man, identified as Tony Abbey of Tullow, Co Carlow, was arrested on Saturday after Customs officers discovered 150.6kg of suspected herbal cannabis.
The discovery was made during a search of a truck that had disembarked a ferry arriving from Bilbao, Spain. Mr. Abbey, who is an international haulier, appeared before a special sitting of Gorey District Court. He was charged with two counts of drug possession.
During the court hearing, Detective Garda Stephen Burke objected to bail, stating the seriousness of the charges and deeming the accused a flight risk due to his frequent travel between Ireland and Europe.
In his defense, solicitor Chris Hogan noted that Mr. Abbey had cooperated with Customs officers during the search. Mr. Abbey also told the court he would comply with any conditions set for his bail.
Judge Miriam Walsh granted bail, with conditions including an independent surety of €40,000 and a personal surety of €20,000, with proof of funds from bank accounts. Mr. Abbey was also ordered to sign on twice a day at Tullow Garda Station, observe a curfew from 11 pm to 7 am, provide a mobile phone number, and not apply for any travel documents.
He was remanded in custody with consent to bail and is scheduled to appear before Wexford District Court on Wednesday.
