Updated 1.15am

Source: Martin Rickett/Pa Images

IRISHMAN KEVIN MALLON has been released on bail from prison in Rio.

Mallon, who is a director of THG Sports, was released at 2.07am Irish time according to RTÉ News.

Mallon was arrested earlier this month for the alleged illegal sale of Olympics tickets and had been held at Rio’s Bangu prison where he had reportedly shared a cell with former OCI President Pat Hickey.

Mallon was arrested at a Rio hotel as he allegedly sold tickets to around 20 buyers. It was reported Brazilian Police seized 781 tickets being sold at “extremely high prices” of up to €7,200.

In a statement yesterday, THG said Mallon’s release has come following “intensive efforts” by the company’s lawyers.

“In line with our previous statements on this matter THG has welcomed the public enquiry in Ireland into these matters and believes that the company and its executives will be vindicated when all of the evidence is reviewed,” the company said in a statement.

“We will continue to work to secure Kevin’s full release and his return to Dublin. Meanwhile, THG is providing full support to Kevin and his family and will continue to seek to ensure their privacy at this difficult time.”

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THG is part of a group owned by UK millionaire Marcus Evans with Brazilian police saying they are investigating email exchanges between Hickey and Evans.

- With reporting from Rónán Duffy

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