Woman accused of money laundering in Portlaoise

A woman appeared in court accused of laundering money in Portlaoise.

Aramide Solanke (22) of 2 Burgage Gardens, Newcastle, Rathcoole, Co Dublin, is accused of money laundering the sum of €2,500 at AIB Portlaoise on December 8, 2023.  

Garda Micheal Kilheeney said it was alleged that “a sum of €2,500 was lodged into Ms Solanke’s account” and the money had been obtained from another account through fraudulent means. 

He said it was alleged that on receipt of the €2,500 in her account her bank card was used to withdraw the money from an ATM in Manchester. “She was in no way a beneficiary,” said Garda Kilheeney. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald described it as one of the “money mule type cases where her account was being used”. 

Judge Susan Fay said it was “slightly different” in that her bank card was allegedly used in an ATM. 

Garda Kilheeney said all of the funds that were transferred to her account were taken out. 

Judge Fay said she would accept jurisdiction in the case. 

Mr Fitzgerald asked for legal aid and said his client works part time in Tesco in Manchester. 

Garda Kilheeney said the defendant had been very compliant and had returned from Manchester for her arrest and for court. 

Judge Fay granted legal aid and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on February 16.