Northern Ireland

Man charged with Malcolm McKeown murder granted bail

Murder victim Malcolm McKeown
Murder victim Malcolm McKeown Murder victim Malcolm McKeown

A MAN charged with the suspected gangland murder of Malcolm McKeown has been granted High Court bail.

Jake O'Brien (24) is allegedly linked to the shooting in Waringstown, Co Down last year by DNA on a glove found close to a getaway car.

A judge ruled today that he can be released from custody once a £5,000 cash surety is lodged.

McKeown (54)was shot six times in the head and body at a petrol station on August 19.

Police have said the killing is tied in with a drugs-related feud between rival criminal groups.

O'Brien, of Rectory Park in Lurgan, Co Armagh, is one of two men charged with his murder. He denies involvement in the attack.

Granting bail for O'Brien to live at an undisclosed address, Lord Justice McCloskey also banned him from entering Lurgan or Waringstown.

He confirmed the case will be reviewed again in four weeks time.