Truck driver charged in relation to €2m cannabis seizure

Robert Slivar, 59, of no fixed abode but originally from Ivanic, Croatia, was brought before a special sitting of Cork District Court where he was charged in connection with the seizure last Sunday. Stock picture: Larry Cummins

A man has been remanded in custody after being charged in connection with a €2m cannabis seizure at the Port of Cork.

Robert Slivar, 59, of no fixed abode but originally from Ivanic, Croatia, was brought before a special sitting of Cork District Court on Saturday where he was charged in connection with the seizure last Sunday following a joint operation involving gardaí and Revenue.

It led to the seizure of approximately 107kg of herbal cannabis with an estimated value of €2.1m from a truck which had arrived from Belgium.

Mr Slivar was brought before the special court sitting and charged with possession, and with possession for sale or supply, of drugs at the Port of Cork, Ringaskiddy, Co Cork, on July 27, 2025.

Detective Garda Ryan Dillon gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution and told Judge John King that the accused made no reply when each of the charges were put to him.

Mr Slivar applied for bail, through his solicitor, Diarmuid Kelleher, but Garda Inspector Ray Dunne said gardaí were objecting to bail given the seriousness of the charge, the strength of the evidence and the fact that be believed there was a flight risk.

Judge King refused bail and remanded Mr Slivar in custody to appear again at a special sitting of Cork District Court next Wednesday.

He also requested a statement of means before granting free legal aid.