Man in court after shooting of Scots in Spanish bar

Michael Riley, a 44-year-old man, has appeared in court in connection with the murders of two prominent figures from a Scottish organized crime group, Ross Monaghan, 43, and Eddie Lyons Jnr, 46. The alleged shootings took place on May 31 at Monaghans Bar in Fuengirola, Spain, where both men were reportedly watching the Champions League final with friends. Riley appeared via videolink from HMP Wandsworth at the Westminster Magistrates' Court, although he has not yet been formally charged with any crimes. During the brief hearing, he confirmed his name and date of birth, but the court proceedings were complicated by technical difficulties with the videolink. As a result, Riley is expected to appear in person for the next hearing on Friday. The extradition hearing, which will determine whether he will be sent to Spain to face charges, is anticipated to take place later this year.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are alarming, as both Lyons Jnr and Monaghan were shot in a public setting. Reports indicate that Lyons Jnr was struck by a single bullet outside the bar, while Monaghan was pursued by the gunman inside the establishment before being shot. The two men are linked to the Lyons crime group, which is based in the west of Scotland, raising concerns about the ongoing presence and activities of organized crime in both Scotland and Spain. Following his arrest by Merseyside Police under an international warrant issued by Spanish authorities, Riley now faces serious allegations that could have significant legal ramifications. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the motives behind the killings and the broader implications for organized crime in the region.