Algerian with knife remanded

An Algerian immigrant took a knife into Department of Justice offices for self-protection from political enemies, a court heard yesterday.Silmane Smain (39), of St Mary's Terrace, Dublin, produced the knife in front of an official at the St Stephen's Green offices who immediately called gardai, Dublin District Court was told.Defence solicitor, Mr Michael Hanahoe, said trouble had arisen with compatriots of the defendant who had "imported their political differences" and he feared meeting them. He added that Smain, who pleaded guilty to possession of a large kitchen knife on January 30th, also suffered from depression and had received psychiatric treatment.Judge Desmond Hogan remanded the defendant on continuing bail to appear again on March 2nd for a probation report.