More time requested in Laois explosives case

Gardaí have requested more time for DPP directions in relation to the investigation into the alleged explosives possession in Laois.

Garrett Pollock (35) of 12 Kilhorne Green, Annalong, Co Down is accused of possessing an explosive substance, to wit four threaded pipe end caps and six litres of hydrogen peroxide at O’Moore Place, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

He is further charged with possessing “three externally threaded metal pipes, hexagonal metal end caps and lengths of green firework fuse (which) are the components of three pipe bomb type improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and four incendiary type improvised explosive devices (IEDS) with white dish cloth wicks” contrary to Section 4 of the Explosive Substances Act, 1883 on November 5, 2025 at his address in Northern Ireland.

He appeared before Portlaoise District Court via video link. Garda Sergeant Jason Hughes said the DPP’s directions weren’t yet available and he asked for more time.

Andrew Dunne BL said his client had been in custody since November. He asked that the case be marked peremptory against the State for the next date.

Judge Susan Fay asked the defendant if he would agree to a four week remand in custody. He replied “no”. Sgt Hughes said he had been told that the file is with the DPP.

Mr Dunne asked the accused, “would you consent to four weeks if it is marked peremptory by the Judge?” The defendant again said, no.

READ NEXT: WATCH: Laois TD calls for 24 hour Garda Station in Portarlington

Judge Fay said she wouldn’t mark it peremptory today but she would on February 23. She adjourned the case to Portlaoise District Court on February 9 as the defendant wouldn’t consent to a longer adjournment. She wanted directions on February 23.

“I will expect them to be before the court on February 23.”

Co accused, Karolis Peckauskas (38) of An Tobar, 37 Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth also appeared before Portlaoise District Court today via video link.

He faces one charge of “possession an explosive substance, to wit four threaded pipe end caps and six litres of hydrogen peroxide" at O’Moore Place, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said his client was also not consenting to a four week adjournment. He asked Judge Fay to make the same order in his case.

Judge Fay adjourned both cases back to Portlaoise District Court on February 9.