Published Tuesday, 18 September 2012
The judge held there was a strong likelihood that Tweed may not attend court. (© UTV)
Samuel Tweed, 71, was only detained on Monday as part of an investigation into the murder of a woman in Belfast in 1974.
A detective told Belfast Magistrates' Court the accused has evaded capture for the past 38 years.
But a defence lawyer claimed police were approached 18 months ago to establish whether his client was wanted.
Tweed, of Mark Street, Newtownards, faces a charge of escaping from lawful custody on 7 May, 1974.
He was refused bail due to the risk of not turning up for future court appearances.
Opposing his release, the detective said that Tweed had been charged in connection with the discovery of 19 weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition when he escaped.
As well as the escaping from custody charge, reports have been sent to the Public Prosecution Service for alleged offences relating to the murder of Ellen McDowell, the officer confirmed.
Miss McDowell, 21, was shot dead as she walked home with her boyfriend in the Shankill area of Belfast in April 1974.
The report to the PPS also includes two attempted murders in the same month, the court heard.
It was claimed in these circumstances that Tweed was unlikely to surrender if released.
"A time period of 38 years has elapsed in which he evaded detection," the detective added.
Defence solicitor Sean McCann stressed that Tweed has not been charged with any offences other than the alleged escape.
He also claimed a lawyer representing the accused went to police 18 months ago and was told there were no warrants for his arrest.
Tweed's wife had just died at the time he made his enquiries.
"Having looked after his wife, who had been ill with cancer for five years, she died and he decided if there was anything, to resolve it," Mr McCann said.
"This man is not intent on leaving the jurisdiction and is not intent on evading what may be before him.
"At 71 years of age he is not going to start a life somewhere else."
But refusing bail, District Judge Fiona Bagnall held there was a strong likelihood that Tweed may not attend court.
He was remanded in custody to appear again by video link on 16 October.