Kevin Lunney told to resign before attackers threatened to kill him, trial hears

A man was forcibly removed from his car, imprisoned in a shipping container and subjected to serious violence during an assault lasting approximately 40 minutes on 17 September 2019 near Ballinagh, County Cavan, the Special Criminal Court heard. The victim was told to resign from his position and threatened with death during the ordeal, which included a broken leg and chest injuries inflicted with a blade. Four men deny false imprisonment and intentionally causing serious harm. Three are charged with direct involvement in the assault; the fourth is alleged to have provided material assistance. The prosecution outlined evidence including CCTV footage, DNA analysis, mobile phone data, and witness testimony from approximately 250 witnesses. A Renault Kangoo van linked to three of the accused contained blood matching the victim's DNA. One defendant purchased bleach near the crime scene at the relevant time. The trial, expected to last four months, is before three judges at the Special Criminal Court.