Man accused over Ryan shooting ‘gone missing’

A man accused of withholding information from gardaí investigating the murder of Real IRA leader Alan Ryan has been reported missing, a judge heard yesterday.

Alan Ryan, a 32-year-old dissident republican, was shot in the body, legs, and head, on Sept 3 last near his home in Clongriffin, north Dublin.

Dublin District Court was told that there were concerns for the safety of Robert Carroll, 27, from Ard Cluain, Clonee, Co Meath, who is accused of withholding information which might have been of material assistance in securing the prosecution or conviction of a person in connection with the murder. The offence, on conviction, can carry a five-year term.

It was expected that Mr Carroll would be served with a book of evidence and that an order be made sending him forward for trial.

However, when the case was called he was not present and defence solicitor Declan Fahy told Judge Ann Ryan that “we are somewhat concerned as to why he is not here”.

Mr Fahy said gardaí were concerned for his safety.

Garda Sergeant Emer Curran asked for a bench warrant to be issued.

Judge Ryan said Mr Carroll knew he was supposed to be in court and, at first, she indicated that she would issue an arrest warrant. However, she later decided not to and adjourned the case to allow time for Mr Carroll to be found.