SWORDS- Ryanair (FR) faces scrutiny as a former pilot, Brendan O’Meara, is charged with possessing €10 million in cannabis. The case, unfolding in Ennis (ENN), Ireland, raises questions about the airline’s personnel and legal proceedings.
O’Meara, 62, was denied bail and remanded to Limerick Prison (SNN), with gardaí alleging international criminal ties and a flight risk.
Ex Ryanair Pilot Arrested
On May 7, 2025, gardaí seized two large pallets of cannabis, valued at over €10 million, at the residence of Brendan O’Meara in Meelick, Co Clare (ENN).
According to The Irish Times, O’Meara, a 62-year-old former Ryanair (FR) pilot, was charged on May 10 during a special sitting of Ennis District Court.
He faces two counts: possession of cannabis for sale or supply under Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act and simple possession under Section 3.
The sale or supply charge carries a potential life sentence upon conviction on indictment.
Judge Marie Keane, presiding over the case, described the drug quantity as “enormous” and noted the severity of the potential penalty.
Despite O’Meara’s entitlement to the presumption of innocence, the judge denied bail due to gardaí objections.
They argued O’Meara posed a flight risk, citing his alleged international criminal connections and potential to flee Ireland.
O’Meara was remanded to Limerick Prison (SNN) and is scheduled to reappear in Ennis District Court (ENN) on May 14, 2025.
O’Meara recently resigned from Ryanair, reportedly planning to relocate to the United States to care for his brother, who has Parkinson’s disease.
In court, his wife and two relatives offered emotional support, but this did not sway the judge’s decision.
The case’s high-profile nature, tied to Ryanair and the significant drug value, has drawn attention to both the airline and Ireland’s legal system.
Bail Refused Over Flight
Judge Marie Keane refused bail based on Garda objections, highlighting the scale of the drug seizure and the possible risk of absconding.
Gardaí alleged that O’Meara might attempt to leave Ireland if released, making it unlikely he would appear for trial.
O’Meara faces two charges: possession of cannabis for sale or supply under Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, and simple possession under Section 3.
Judge Keane emphasized the severity of the charges, stating that the street value and volume of the drugs involved could lead to a life sentence if convicted on indictment.
Legal Proceedings
Despite the seriousness of the charges, the judge noted that O’Meara remains entitled to the presumption of innocence.
He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear again before Ennis District Court on Wednesday, May 14th.
The case has attracted significant public interest due to O’Meara’s aviation background and the extraordinary value of the cannabis seized.
Legal analysts suggest the trial may involve further investigations into possible international links related to the trafficking operation.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
