Extradited man remanded in custody over alleged terrorism charges

A 58-YEAR-OLD man extradited from the Republic of Ireland in connection with alleged terrorism offences in Omagh has been remanded in custody.

Sean Walsh, of Belmont Park, Ballinlough Douglas, Cork, appeared before Omagh Magistrates Court today (Tuesday) charged with a number of terrorism-related offences alleged to have taken place in the Omagh area between July 18 and 20, 2020.

His arrest was sought as part of Operation Arbacia, a major undercover surveillance operation carried out by MI5 and the police into the activities of alleged violent dissident republicans.

Walsh is to stand trial for offences including alleged membership of the IRA, directing terrorism, conspiracy to direct terrorism, and preparation of terrorist acts. The charges relate to a meeting that allegedly took place at an address on Buninver Road in Gortin.

A detective sergeant told the court that an extradition warrant had been issued in 2021 by a court in Northern Ireland.

Following what was described as a lengthy process, the High Court in the Republic of Ireland ordered Walsh’s surrender. The defendant appealed the warrant, but the Supreme Court ruled against him, resulting in his extradition.

The detective told the court that Walsh was believed to be a ‘trusted member’ of the New IRA.

A representative from the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) opposed bail, citing Walsh’s appeal of the extradition as evidence of a flight risk, and concerns that he may commit further offences.

It was outlined that nine of Walsh’s co-accused have previously been granted bail due to delays in the Arbacia case. However, the PPS stated that Walsh’s remand time had only now commenced.

District Judge Ted Magill, referring to Walsh’s criminal record in the Republic, noted his most recent conviction was in 2018 for membership of a proscribed organisation dating back to 2016. Bail was refused on the grounds of flight risk and the potential for reoffending.

Due to the absence of Walsh’s defence counsel, the case was adjourned until tomorrow (May 14) for a fresh bail application at Dungannon Magistrates Court.

Following the extradition, Sergeant Davey from the International Policing Unit said, “This extradition demonstrates our continued and effective working with partners to track down wanted persons and bring offenders to justice. The Police Service of Northern Ireland continues to work closely with authorities in the Republic of Ireland to locate and return those wanted to stand trial in Northern Ireland.

“In this particular case, we worked closely with the PSNI’s Terrorism Investigation Unit and An Garda Síochána to locate this man and bring him before the courts.

“PSNI will relentlessly pursue those sought to stand trial in this jurisdiction.”