Lisburn man denies kidnapping, poisoning and threats to kill charges

Prosecutors claimed the pair were held at the address in Lisburn, Co Antrim and forced to take a mixture of vodka and pills.

Polish national Mieczyslaw Krepacki denies charges of common assault, kidnapping and administering poison to endanger life.

The 32-year-old also faces counts of false imprisonment, threats to kill, having a Taser stun-gun and possessing an offensive weapon, namely a baton.

He allegedly committed the offences at his home on Chapel Hill Mews over a three-day period last November.

Bail was refused due to concerns he may interfere with witnesses.

The court heard claims Krepacki forced both men – who are also from Poland – to drink quantities of vodka and either sleeping tablets or another unknown medication.

It was alleged that he consistently assaulted and threatened them, along with ordering them to clean his flat.

Defence counsel Joel Lindsay said the men had all been present at a drinking session along with other neighbours.

He argued that the claims being made were so bizarre that a successful prosecution was unlikely.

He pointed to a lack of physical injuries at the end of their ordeal.

Referring to allegations that at one stage his client brought the pair from a job centre, the barrister contended: “We are expected to believe these men were being dragged through public areas and didn’t complain to anyone.”

Responding to claims the two men had been locked in the flat for periods, he said keys and a phone had been present.

The judge acknowledged: “There are a number of strange aspects to this case.”

However, he ordered Krepacki to remain in custody, citing the potential for further offences or interfering with alleged victims said to be in fear of him. ends