3 days ago
Romanian man, 23, charged with smuggling two people through Rosslare Europort
A 23-year-old Romanian man has been remanded in custody charged with smuggling two men through Rosslare Europort.
Roberto Nickitean, described as a Romanian national, appeared before Judge John O'Leary at a special sitting of Wexford District Court this evening.
The accused, dressed in a dark jumper and trousers, sat in the body of the court as the charge was outlined.
Det. Garda Stephen Burke of Wexford Garda Station said that, on May 31, 2025, at Wexford Garda Station, he charged the accused with intentionally assisting entry into, transit across or presence in the State such as entry into the State, in breach of Section 5 of the Immigration Act 2004, contrary to Section 6(1) of the Criminal Justice (Smuggling of Persons) Act 2021, on May 30.
Det. Burke told the court that the accused made no reply when the charge was put to him.
Defence Counsel Ross Pratt-O'Brien, B.L., instructed by Maria Murphy, solicitor, said there would be no application for bail at this time. He said an application for bail would be made on Tuesday next.
Judge O'Leary said he would remand the accused in custody to appear before Wexford District Court on Tuesday at 10.30am, when a bail application can be heard.
Mr. Pratt-O'Brien applied for free legal aid, which was granted. Also granted was an application for an interpreter.
The truck driver was arrested by gardai in Wexford after gardai and customs officials found two men hiding in a truck at Rosslare Europort on Friday morning.
Gardai launched an investigation after the discovery of the men, who were concealed in the truck at 8am on Friday morning at the port.
Gardai along with Customs and Revenue located the two males during an immigration check, after which they were assessed by medical personnel.
It is understood that the two males are currently in the Provision Centre in City West, Dublin, where they are being assessed.
