Two arrested and suspected explosives seized in counter-terror operation
Two men have been arrested and suspected explosive materials have been seized as part of a “counter-terrorism operation” in Co Louth.
The Garda Special Detective Unit seized “component parts and suspected explosive material” following the search in the county on Friday, which was assisted by the Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.
Two men, one aged in his 20s and the other in his 50s, were arrested as part of the investigation.
Both were detained at Garda stations in the north-east of the country under the Offences Against the State Act, 1939.
Speaking about what gardai described as a “long-running investigation”, Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said: “This is a particularly significant find.
“This search and arrest operation by our counter-terrorism unit, the Special Detective Unit, demonstrates the important work carried out by Garda national security personnel every day to protect people on this island.
“It also shows that we must continue to degrade and dismantle the threat from those who are intent on destroying peace by harming others.
“I have been in contact with the PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher this morning and our close co-operation in relation to countering dissident groups continues.
“I would also like to thank the Defence Forces for its assistance in today’s search operation.”
Mr Boutcher praised the seizure and arrests as “excellent police work [that] has prevented serious harm or loss of life”.
He added the PSNI will continue to work with colleagues over the border to “counter the threat posed by dissident republican groups”.