Group accused of bringing drugs to the Island to appear in court again

Four men, allegedly part of an organised criminal gang bringing drugs into the Island, have appeared in court.

Alan Dickinson, of Demesne Road, Liam Skillicorn, of Lheannag Park - both in Douglas - John Bates, of Clough Road in Liverpool and Colin Richards, of Waverley House in Ramsey appeared before Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood at Douglas Courthouse.

All four are charged with participating in a criminal organisation while Mr Dickinson, 32, Mr Skillicorn, 23 and Mr Richards, 57 are also charged with being concerned in producing cocaine and cannabis.

Mr Dickinson is also charged with possessing class A and B drugs with intent to supply, and Mr Bates faces five counts of removing criminal property.

The court heard police observed the gang using a rigid inflatable boat to bring in drugs from Anglesey and return with drugs cash - after a police chase last October, a car allegedly used by them was abandoned at the Sloc and cocaine and cannabis with a street value of up to around £150,000 were found inside.

No pleas have been entered and they were remanded in custody to appear in court again on March 14.