A man charged in connection with the biggest ever cocaine seizure in Northern Ireland believed he was picking up a packet of cash, Belfast’s High Court heard today.
Lawyers for Terence Telford (38) claimed he only agreed to collect a package containing £5 million worth of drugs to get back £200 he was owed.
Mr Telford, from Wolfhill Road, Belfast, was told the parcel he was to pick up on Saturday merely contained money, according to his defence.
However, police were said to have recovered 22 kilos of cocaine when they detained him near the Boucher Road in south Belfast.
Mr Telford and lorry driver Terence Bean (62), formerly of Sparrow Street, Oldham but now living in Malaga, Spain, each face charges of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, conspiracy to supply, possession and possession with intent to supply.
Michael Reeves (28), of Carrick Hill, Belfast, is accused of conspiracy to supply cocaine.
Both Mr Telford and Mr Reeves were refused High Court bail due to the potential risk of further offences being committed. Bean remains in custody.
Philip Magee SC, for Mr Telford, said his client was arrested "30 seconds" after he picked up the box from Mr Bean.
The court heard Mr Telford had been phoned unexpectedly by Mr Reeves, who owed him £200 for a car he fixed, and asked to collect a cash package as a favour. He was allegedly informed he would get the money he was owed plus an extra £200 for the hassle.
Mr Magee said his client had received death threats in jail.
The court was told of Mr Telford's involvement with the Boys' Brigade in Glengormley, Co Antrim. Character references were submitted by his church minister and BB captain.
Refusing both Telford and Reeves bail applications, Mr Justice Hart said all three accused were linked together by mobile phone traffic. "The amount of money involved and the nature of this offence is such that I'm entirely satisfied there is a risk of further offending."