Samurai sword used in attack at dwelling

Londonderry Magistrates Court was told Robert Emmett Rogan (29), of Altcar Park, was accused of forcing his way into a house armed with a samurai sword. He was further charged with possession of an offensive weapon with intent.

It was alleged the defendant went into the woman’s house looking for a man who was in the property. She heard a commotion and allegedly saw Rogan on top of the man pointing a samurai sword at his neck and chest area. She tried to grab the blade and sustained a cut to her hand and the man also sustained a small cut during the alleged incident.

The court was told there were three young children in the property at the time.

Rogan was arrested a short time after he left the property and during police interview he denied any involvement.

Bail was opposed by police who were concerned about public safety and the safety of the complainant. The weapon is capable of cutting people and there was no clear motive for the attack.

District Judge Peter King refused bail for fear of further offences.

He said: “The image of you on top of the injured party with a samurai sword pointed down at him is one that is difficult to shake from my mind.”

Rogan was remanded in custody to appear in court again via videolink on June 11.