A man accused of hijacking a Northern Ireland Electricity van which crashed following a pursuit in Belfast must remain in custody for the public's protection, a judge has ruled.
David Connors, 30, was refused bail amid claims he was behind the wheel of the truck as it collided with up to seven vehicles across the city.
Police said he was arrested with co-defendant Raymond Carlisle when the stolen van crashed, struck a tree and overturned on the Springfield Road.
Connors, of Old Forge in the Dunmurry area, faces a total of 44 charges in connection with the incident on February 16.
Two men allegedly seized control of the NIE vehicle at Agnes Street after threatening the driver with a sharpened metal bar and dragging him out.
Connors is accused of hijacking, driving while disqualified, failing to stop for police, and multiple counts of aggravated vehicle taking and failing to stop or remain at an accident.
He is further alleged to have assaulted a doctor and used disorderly behaviour after he was taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital.
Carlisle, 28, of no fixed abode, has already been granted bail on charges of hijacking, aggravated vehicle taking, and possessing an offensive weapon in public.
At Belfast Magistrates' Court yesterday Counsel for Connors argued that he should also be released to ensure parity in the case.
Barrister Sean O'Hare said: "Both men were apprehended at the scene of the crashed vehicle at the end.
"The case made by this defendant is that he wasn't the driver, despite police assertions."
However, Deputy District Judge Liam McStay denied his application.
"The prosecution assert that Connors was the driver, and that he made significant statements which are suggestive of an attitude to the law and driving matters which is not impressive.
"My concern is the protection of the public and prevention of re-offending."
Connors was remanded in custody to appear again next month.