Court told that a Derry man is a 'principal' player in NI drugs trade

A 32 year-old Derry man who had an attempt made on his life six years ago has been described as a 'principal player' in the drugs trade in Northern Ireland.

Declan Gallagher, a driving instructor whose address was given as the Greater Manchester area, appeared before Derry Magistrates Court today.

A partial anonymity order was granted where Gallagher can be named in the press but his exact address in Manchester cannot be published.

He is accused of 17 charges including being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis, conspiracy to supply the drugs and importation of drugs.

The charges span from dates unknown in 2013 until October 2014.

Gallagher had an attempt made on his life in 2008 by RAAD when he was shot and his home in St Johnston, Co Donegal, was blown up.

Gallagher's wife was also assaulted in the attack and his dog was shot dead.

Gallagher is accused of committing the offences throughout a number of jurisdictions; Derry, Antrim, Ards, Fermanagh, Tyrone, Armagh, South Down, Craigavon and Belfast.

An investigating police officer said Gallagher should not be granted bail due to fear of further offences and fear of fleeing the jurisdiction.

The officer also said there was a 'strong circumstantial case' against Gallagher and the associates of a criminal drugs gang.

He said Gallagher had been a 'principal player' in bringing £2.1m of drugs into Northern Ireland in six major consignments.

District Judge Barney McElholm said there was a fear of further offences as Gallagher had resumed activity shortly after each consignment of drugs.

He added that there were still suspects to be arrested in England and Northern Ireland and that Gallagher could interfere with the investigation.

District Judge McElholm also said there was a clear risk of flight as Gallgaher has links in the Republic of Ireland, England, Spain and Amsterdam.

He added: "My concern and the concern of this court is for the welfare of the child and the children of this city are being poisoned on a day and daily basis by illegal drugs."

Bail was refused and Gallagher will appear back before the court via video link from prison on November 6.