Spanish man awaits international investigation into conspiracy to import drugs in West Cork

Anuar Rahui had previously been refused bail by the High Court

Anuar Rahui, one of 10 men charged with conspiracy to import a huge consignment of drugs into Ireland, was remanded into custody until June 25. Picture: Chani Anderson

Enquiries are ongoing within the state and internationally in the case of an alleged conspiracy to import a huge consignment of drugs into Ireland between late February and mid-March.

This emerged at Cork District Court on Tuesday when one of 10 arrested men appeared by video link from prison.

Solicitor for 41-year-old Anuar Rahui, Frank Buttimer, asked the prosecution sergeant what progress had been made in the investigation as it was the only matter causing this defendant’s detention in custody. “He is a Spanish national and he has been refused bail by the High Court,” Mr Buttimer said.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis said: “The file has not gone to the DPP as of yet. Enquiries are ongoing within the state and internationally due to the nature of the alleged offence.” 

Mr Buttimer asked: “When might those enquiries be completed?” Sgt Davis said that he would propose that a member of the investigation team would give an update on the position regarding the investigation on the adjourned date or else there would be a detailed report on progress before the court.

Mr Buttimer said the accused was prepared to consent to a four-week remand in custody to facilitate progress, on the understanding that there would be evidence of progress on the next occasion.

Judge Mary Dorgan remanded the accused in custody until June 25.

Anuar Rahui of Malaga, Spain — like the other defendants — is charged with conspiring with nine others to import drugs. 

The charge in each case states: “That you (defendant’s name) on dates between February 27 and March 14, both dates inclusive, within the state, did conspire with one or more persons, namely (nine other names) to do an act in the state that constitutes a serious offence, namely the other nine importation of controlled drugs in excess of €13,000, an offence contrary of Section 15B (1) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 as amended and contrary to Section 71 (1) (a) (4) of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 as amended by Section 4 (b) of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions ) Act 2023.” 

A Spanish interpreter translated proceedings from Cork District Court for Mr Rahui on the video link.