Brothers Denied Bail Over 3D Printed Gun Charges in Cork

Two brothers, Gary Walsh (40) and Damien Walsh (32), have been denied bail following their appearance at the Mallow District Court in County Cork. They face multiple charges related to the alleged sourcing and supply of firearms to criminal elements. The court session took place on March 15, 2024, after both men were arrested during a police operation in Charleville.

The arrests occurred when Gardaí stopped and searched a vehicle, an Opel Corsa, at a filling station in Rathgoggin South shortly after 11 PM on Wednesday. During the search, law enforcement officials discovered a loaded .22 calibre 3D printed pistol concealed between the seats of the car. Detective Garda James McCarthy, who provided evidence during the court proceedings, stated that the firearm was operational and posed a significant threat.

According to Detective Inspector John O’Connell, the Gardaí opposed bail due to the severity of the offences, which carry a maximum penalty of 14 years upon conviction. The prosecution claims that Gary Walsh was engaged in sourcing and supplying firearms, a position supported by evidence including videos and voice recordings retrieved from his mobile phone. These recordings reportedly feature a tattooed hand — consistent with Gary Walsh’s — handling the firearm.

The court heard that the recordings also captured a conversation in which Gary Walsh discussed supplying a gun to a third party. It is alleged that Damien Walsh was present during this exchange, although his defence solicitor, Joe Cuddigan, argued that Damien had fallen asleep and was unaware of the conversation. Cuddigan contended that the weapon was concealed within a black plastic refuse sack, making it unlikely that both men were aware of its presence.

Detective Garda McCarthy countered this claim, asserting that the sack was within arm’s reach of both men, suggesting their awareness of its contents. Judge Monika Leech ruled in favour of the prosecution, citing the serious nature of the charges as the basis for denying bail. Both brothers have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear again at Mallow District Court via video link next Tuesday.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the illegal arms trade and its implications for public safety in Ireland. The Gardaí continue to investigate the broader context of this incident and its potential connections to organized crime.