Man facing gun-running charges loses bail plea in Lithuania

A Irishman facing arms running charges for the Real IRA was refused bail by a court in Lithuania today.

The Vilnius District Court said that 36-year-old Michael Campbell, whose brother Liam is believed to be a senior member of the terrorist organisation, is too dangerous to be released and is considered a flight risk.

Defence lawyer Ingrida Botyriene claimed that Campbell’s rights have been violated as he has already been held in jail for 18 months without trial.

Campbell was arrested along with a woman in January 2008 in a sting operation while allegedly trying to purchase weapons and explosives.

The next court session is scheduled for October 7.