'Slab' Murphy faces tax charges

Thomas "Slab" Murphy made no reply when cautioned

The alleged former IRA chief of staff Thomas "Slab" Murphy, 58, has appeared in court in Ardee, County Louth, charged with tax evasion.

Mr Murphy, was arrested by detectives from the Irish Republic's Criminal Assets Bureau on Wednesday night.

He faced nine counts of failing to file tax returns. Mr Murphy made no reply when cautioned, the court was told.

A judge said he had no objection to bail after hearing Mr Murphy had no previous convictions.

This was provided he reside in the jurisdiction and hand over his passport.

There was a media scrum as Thomas Murphy was led into court

The case has been adjourned pending the arrival of an independent bails person.

Garda Detective Inspector Kevin Ring told the court that during questioning at Drogheda Garda Station Mr Murphy, who lives at Ballybinaby, Hackballscross, Co Louth, began to feign illness, complaining of headaches.

A doctor was called to the station but did not certify the illness and the defendant was taken to Drogheda hospital.

Mr Murphy's solicitor told the court that it was recommended at the hospital that his client stay overnight, but he discharged himself.

Inspector Ring said Mr Murphy was then charged shortly after 0425 GMT on Thursday.