An Inishowen farmer accused of being in possession of firearms, including a submachine gun, and drugs has been returned for trial to the local Circuit Court.
Ivan Peoples (47), of Carrowreagh, Bridgend, appeared before Buncrana District Court, where the Book of Evidence was formally served on him.
He faces a total of sixteen charges, including a series of allegations relating to firearms, ammunition and controlled drugs.
Among the charges before the court are allegations Mr Peoples was in possession of a submachine gun, as well as three semi-automatic firearms and a shotgun. He is also accused of unlawfully possessing a silencer and four magazines designed for high-calibre automatic weapons.
In addition to the firearms allegations, Mr Peoples faces charges under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
The court heard he is charged with possession of cannabis with an estimated value in excess of €13,000 for the purpose of sale or supply.
Garda Michael Connolly gave evidence confirming that he had served the Book of Evidence on the accused at Buncrana Courthouse.
Sergeant Conor Mulkerns told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had directed trial on indictment and consented to Mr Peoples being sent forward for trial on all sixteen charges. The case is due to proceed before the current sitting of Letterkenny Circuit Court, commencing on May 19, 2026.
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Judge Emile Daly noted that service of the Book of Evidence had been completed and made an order returning Mr Peoples for trial by judge and jury to Letterkenny Circuit Court.
During the hearing, Judge Daly also issued what is commonly referred to as an “alibi warning”, informing the accused that if he intends to rely on alibi evidence as part of his defence, written notice must first be provided to the State Solicitor within 14 days.
The judge further granted a Section 56 order directing that copies of all video interviews conducted by gardaí be furnished to the defence team.
Mr Peoples was released on continuing bail and signed a bail bond before leaving the courtroom. The accused did not have an opportunity to address the court during the brief proceedings.
Defence solicitor Rory O’Brien applied for legal aid for both junior and senior counsel for the upcoming Circuit Court trial, citing the “serious nature” of the charges before the court. The application was granted by Judge Daly.
The court also heard that Mr Peoples separately faces a number of road traffic matters, which are due to be dealt with before the District Court.