Extradition proceedings against a County Tyrone man have been withdrawn, ending a legal process that began earlier this month.

James O'Rourke, 70, of Derryvale Road, Coalisland, was discharged by Judge Laura Ievers at Belfast Extradition Court on Thursday after Irish authorities withdrew their warrant.

Mr O'Rourke had been sought to face prosecution over allegations of sexual assault and false imprisonment in the Galway area in 2022.

He was interviewed by gardaí and denied the allegations before returning to Northern Ireland. An extradition warrant was later issued, leading to his voluntary arrest earlier this month.

He was released on bail with conditions including a curfew, electronic tagging, and reporting to police in Dungannon three times a week.

At court, Judge Ievers confirmed the warrant had been withdrawn and told Mr O'Rourke he was formally discharged. He is no longer subject to any proceedings or bail conditions.

His solicitor, Michael Madden of Madden & Finucane, said Mr O'Rourke had always denied wrongdoing and was never charged with a criminal offence. He confirmed that proceedings for unlawful detention will be lodged imminently.