Drug courier accused bail refused

A man from Manchester has appeared in court, charged with possession of up to 10,000 ecstasy tablets.

James Jibson, 27, was charged with being in possession of a Class A drug and possession with intent to supply.

Belfast Magistrates Court heard he was arrested on Thursday shortly after getting off a flight from Manchester.

The court heard he admitted he had been bringing the drugs to Belfast but said he was merely a courier. He was remanded in custody for four weeks.

The car he was travelling in was stopped by police on the Sydenham bypass, near George Best Belfast City Airport.

The court was told he had been carrying ecstasy tablets in a washing powder box which was wrapped to look like a present.

He said he was paid £500 to bring the drugs but he could not reveal the name of the person who gave it to him, the court heard.

Denying bail, the magistrate said he feared for his safety if he should return to Manchester.