Two men from Boconnell Lane in Lurgan appeared via video link from Maghaberry Prison at Craigavon Magistrates Court on Friday. Fergal Leatham, 35, faces charges of possessing a machete with intent to commit an indictable offence and grievous bodily harm. Phelim Leathem, 67, faces charges of possessing a pen knife with intent to cause an indictable offence and attempted murder.

Police responded to a report of an altercation between Leathem family members at 7.45pm on April 3 near a laneway in Lurgan. The incident involved Phelim Leathem's brother Barry as the complainant, along with Barry's two sons and a son-in-law. Phelim Leathem told police Barry punched him during the clash. Police seized a pen knife from a table in the hall of the house.

Fergal Leathem told police he held a machete, which he had used on a tree earlier and placed under his car. Officers recovered the machete from there. Barry Leathem received stab wounds to the neck and stomach, plus bruising and cuts to his back matching a machete. He underwent two surgical procedures at Craigavon Area Hospital.

Barry's son reported Phelim Leathem approached on a forklift, exited with a knife, and stabbed Barry in the neck and stomach. Barry punched Phelim Leathem, knocking him down. Fergal Leathem swung a machete and struck Barry on the back. Phelim Leathem went to hospital for injuries including a brain bleed, facial abrasions, and a broken tooth.

In interviews, Fergal Leathem admitted holding the machete above his head to deter attacks but denied striking Barry. Phelim Leathem admitted waving the pen knife to scare others and said he must have caused Barry's injuries without realizing contact. Police opposed bail citing risks of witness interference, further offences, lack of suitable address, and proximity of involved families amid long-running disputes.

Barristers Patrick Taylor and Conor Lunny sought bail for their clients. Lunny noted Phelim Leathem has no criminal record and runs a mushroom factory as a local farmer and businessman. Deputy District Judge Gerard Trainor granted bail for both to an address on Mullybrannon Road, Dungannon.

Conditions include no contact with Barry Leathem or three witnesses, signing at Cookstown Police Station twice weekly, staying outside three miles of Lurgan including Barry's home, £1,500 cash surety each, and £1,000 own bail each. The case resumes May 15.