The RUC has launched an investigation into the activities of men who prey on young boys for illegal sex, Belfast Magistrate's Court heard yesterday.
A detective said the investigation began a number of months ago and was continuing. He was objecting to bail being granted to Harry Batchelor (49), a van driver, from Hillhall Gardens, Lisburn, who faced four charges of indecent assault and four of gross indecency, all involving a 15-year-old boy.
The detective said he feared that if Mr Batchelor was released on bail he would reoffend and contact other men who were similarly involved.
He said police had seized Mr Batchelor's computer and were in the process of identifying some of the e-mail addresses. The detective agreed with defence solicitor Mr Norman Shannon that the alleged offences against the 15-year-old were by consent.
He said Mr Batchelor had been told by police that now the matter had "got out" it would be inadvisable for him to return to his home. "There are a number of other addresses where he could reside," said Mr Shannon, applying for bail. Resident Magistrate Mervyn Bates said as the investigation was ongoing he was concerned about the risk of interference with witnesses and remanded Mr Batchelor in custody for a week.