A MAN was remanded in custody yesterday after he was charged with possessing a handgun in connection with a shooting during Dublin’s Smithfield horse fair last Sunday.
Gardaí were on the scene when a number of shots were fired at about 11.30am at the monthly market in Dublin’s city centre which was attended by up to 4,500 horse traders and spectators.
Two men were wounded after being shot in the hip and leg and were taken to the Mater hospital. Their injuries were described as not life-threatening.
Another man was injured from a slash hook. A home-made shotgun was recovered at the scene and a handgun was later found in the Oliver Bond Street area in the south inner city.
A man was arrested under section 30 of the Offences against the State Act, 1939, on Sunday evening and detained at the Bridewell Garda station. Yesterday morning he was brought to Dublin District Court to be charged.
Judge Miriam Malone heard that John Keniry (41), Rainsford Avenue, Thomas Court, Dublin, is accused of unlawful possession of a Webley .22 calibre revolver, at Oliver Bond Street, on March 6th.
Det Garda Michael Donlon, of the Bridewell Garda station, told Judge Malone that the defendant replied “just sorry for taking it off him” after he was charged and cautioned.
Det Garda Donlon objected to bail citing the seriousness of the charge and concerns that he would not turn up to court.
Defence solicitor Michael Hanahoe said his client was seeking bail. He asked the court to note his reply to the charge and that gardaí were satisfied with the address Mr Keniry gave them.
He also told the judge that the defendant’s pregnant partner was in court.
Judge Malone refused bail.
Mr Keniry was remanded in custody to appear again at Cloverhill District Court on March 16th next.
The judge said legal aid would be granted on the basis that he is in custody but subject to a statement of means being furnished.
Mr Keniry remained silent during his brief court appearance.