Interpol still helping murder inquiry

Interpol is still assisting gardaí with the investigation into a double murder in Co Kerry in June, a court was told yesterday.

The inquiries are crucial to the investigation and have taken time to resolve, Cork District Court heard as the man charged with the murders of Jolanta Lubiene, 27, and her daughter, Enrika, 8, in Killorglin in June was remanded in custody for a further month.

The bodies of Ms Lubiene and her daughter were discovered in their rented home at Langford Downs, Killorglin, Co Kerry, on June 16. Both had died from multiple stab wounds.

Lithuanian Aurimas Andruska, 26, has been charged with their murder at a time unknown on June 15 at the house.

Mr Andruska, of Ardmoniel Heights, Killorglin, Co Kerry, appeared before Judge Aingeal Ní Chondúin via video-link from Cork Prison.

With the assistance of a translator, Mr Andruska spoke only to confirm his identity and to confirm he had consulted with his solicitor, Michael O’Donnell.

Inspector Gary McPolin told the judge the book of evidence in the case was not yet ready.

He said Garda investigations were continuing and inquiries were still being made, with the assistance of Interpol.

“These inquiries are crucial to the investigation and have taken time to resolve,” he said.

“The full investigation file is near completion and it’s expected to be submitted to the law office shortly.”

He said the State was applying for an extension of time to finalise the book of evidence and applied to further remand Mr Andruska in custody for four weeks.

Judge Ní Chondúin said she was satisfied with the State’s explanation that it was a lengthy investigation and she granted a time extension. She further remanded Mr Andruska in custody to appear before Cork District Court by video link on Sept 25.

It is expected that gardaí will be in a position then to update the court on the status of the book of evidence.