A LEARNER TRUCK driver accused of possessing €255,000 in crime proceeds from “romance fraud” could face additional charges, a court heard.

Ayo Egbon, 37, of Broomhill House, Swords Road, Dublin, was charged earlier under money laundering legislation and, as a condition of bail, barred from using “dating and matchmaking websites”.

He is accused of acquiring, possessing, using, or converting €255,472 in a Permanent TSB account in his name, knowing or reckless to it being proceeds of crime.

The offences allegedly took place from February 2017 until February 2020 and the case follows a Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) investigation. 

He faced his fourth appearance at Dublin District Court today when Judge Bryan Smyth noted the gardai needed more time to get directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

However, Garda Sergeant Maire McDevitt told Judge Smyth that the GNECB needed more time to hear back from the DPP.

Defence counsel Kevin McCrave said his client, who was charged in February, had come to court but perhaps should have been notified that the directions were still unavailable.

The sergeant requested an adjournment, adding that the case involved a “considerable amount” and “there may be further charges”.

Judge Smyth granted a four-week adjournment and said: “I expect some progress.”

Mr Egbon was remanded on continuing bail.

Earlier in the proceedings, it was claimed that “these were the proceeds of romance fraud”, and the injured party was from Finland.

Mr Egbon, who has yet to indicate a plea, has to obey several conditions.

He must reside at the address given and “not to go on any internet dating or matchmaking sites.” 

He had to surrender his passport and must not apply for alternative travel documents.

The accused is training to be a truck driver and has been granted legal aid.

A decision has yet to be made as to whether his case would be dealt with at the District Court level or go forward to the Circuit Court, which can impose lengthier sentences.

The charge is under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010.

A summary conviction in the District Court can lead to a fine not exceeding €5,000 and imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months, but a conviction on indictment carries a fine and a sentence of up to 14 years.