Man appears in court over guns and drugs haul

A 29-year-old man has appeared in court in connection with the discovery of firearms and drugs in Co Laois on Friday.

Kildare native Luke Jacob who resides at an apartment in The Oaks, Kilnacourt, Portarlington appeared before a special sitting of Portlaoise District Court this morning.

He was brought before the court on two charges relating to the possession of two sawn-off shotguns, a 9mm pistol and ammunition at Kilnacourt on Friday. Cannabis herb with an estimated value of €10,000 discovered in the search has been sent for analysis.

Detective Garda Gerry Galwey applied to have the defendant remanded in custody and said there is "likely to be more charges" arising from the discovery.

Consenting to a remand in custody, Solictor Declan Breen requested appropriate medical treatment for his client who suffers from asthma and hepatitis C. Mr Breen also applied for legal aid for his client who he said was unemployed and originally from Rathangan in Co Kildare.

Judge John Coughlan granted legal aid and remanded the defendant in custody to appear before a sitting of Portlaoise District Court on Thursday.