Northern Ireland

Seven people charged with tobacco fraud

Seven people have been returned for trial on charges of knowingly being concerned in the defrauding of tax on tobacco products.

Of these, five defendants are also accused of possessing criminal property.

Appearing before Dungannon Magistrates Court were Arthur James David Fearon (72) from The Village, Forkhill; Miceal Fearon (25) from Carrickbroad Road, Newry; Patrick Martin Higgins (66) from Greenvale Park, Magherafelt, and Mary Elizabeth Mullan (51); Roisin Pearl Mullan (35) Thomas John Mullan (76) and Thomas Paul Mullan (49) – all from Moss Road, Coagh.

They stand accused of being knowingly concerned in carrying, removing, depositing, harbouring or concealing cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco with intent to defraud HMRC of duty payable.

With the exception of both defendants named Fearon, there are additional charges of possessing criminal property under Proceeds of Crime legislation.

The allegations relate to a detection on September 14, 2016.

The defendants spoke only to confirm their identities and to say they understood the charges.

A prosecuting lawyer said there is a case to answer which was agreed by District Judge John Meehan. None of the accused called witnesses or gave evidence on their own behalf during the hearing.

Judge Meehan remanded the defendants on £200 bail each, and ordered then to appear for arraignment at Dungannon Crown Court in September.