Reports that Gardaí intercepted a completed “ready for use” bomb allegedly destined for just across the Armagh border are “chilling” and raise “deeply uncomfortable questions” for the Irish Government.
Newry and Armagh MLA Gareth Wilson was speaking after An Garda Síochána confirmed that members of its Special Detective Unit (SDU) stopped a vehicle on the N2 south of Carrickmacross at around 3pm on Wednesday, July 22.
He said: “Reports that police in the Republic intercepted a completed terrorist bomb allegedly destined for Northern Ireland just across the Armagh border are chilling. It was, according to reports, a live terrorist operation that could have resulted in loss of life.
“All those involved in stopping this deserve enormous credit. Their actions may have prevented innocent families from suffering unimaginable tragedy.”
However, Mr Wilson said the nature of the incident raised serious concerns about the capabilities of dissident republicans and the response of authorities in the Republic.
“But this operation also raises deeply uncomfortable questions for the Irish Government,” he continued.
“How is it that dissident republican terrorists remain capable of assembling sophisticated explosive devices and allegedly transporting them towards the border? People are entitled to ask what grip the Irish authorities truly have on these organisations.
“This incident is a stark reminder that these terrorists remain active, organised and intent on mayhem. The response from both governments must be relentless. We cannot allow a return to the darkest days of our past.”
Gardaí said that following the vehicle stop, assistance was requested from the Irish Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team, which conducted an examination of the vehicle.
They added that “the outcome is not being released for operational reasons”.
A woman in her 20s, who was driving the vehicle, was arrested at the scene and is being questioned.
A man in his 40s has since been arrested in connection with the investigation and is also being detained. Investigations are ongoing.
The PSNI confirmed it is working closely with Gardaí following the operation.
Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck, from the PSNI’s Crime Department, said he “very much” welcomed the “significant seizure and the arrests made” by An Garda Síochána, with whom the force works “very closely on a daily basis”.
“This underlines our joint commitment to address the threat posed by violent dissident republican groups and keep communities safe,” he said.
“We will continue to liaise closely with An Garda Síochána in relation to their investigation, and provide any support as required.”
Justice Minister Naomi Long has praised the work of security partners, which led to the interception.
The Minister said: “I unequivocally condemn those responsible for this planned attack and the intent behind it. There can be no justification for actions designed to endanger lives and spread fear within our communities.
“I am extremely grateful to An Garda Síochána, the Irish Defence Forces Bomb Disposal Team, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and UK security partners for their swift and professional response in intercepting and making safe this significant explosive device before it could cause harm.
“This was a sophisticated, viable device that was reportedly completed and ready for use. The successful operation has almost certainly prevented serious injury or loss of life and is a clear demonstration of the professionalism, dedication and effectiveness of those charged with keeping the public safe.
“The incident, together with the recent attacks on police stations in Lurgan and Dunmurry, highlights the continuing threat posed by a small number of individuals who remain intent on causing harm, targeting the police and undermining community safety. These events serve as a stark reminder that the threat from terrorism has not disappeared.
“However, they also demonstrate the strength of the close and enduring cooperation between policing, security and justice partners North and South. Those intent on causing harm do not recognise borders, and our efforts to prevent, detect and disrupt such activity must continue to transcend them. While the interception of this device is reassuring and reflects the effectiveness of our security partners, we must not become complacent. We must continue to support the capabilities, partnerships and operational cooperation necessary to identify and disrupt threats before they can impact our communities.”
The Minister said that addressing the vulnerability of young people susceptible to radicalisation must continue to be a priority for government and society.
She added: “Those who continue to pursue terrorism have nothing to offer society but fear, destruction and misery. Their actions have been repeatedly rejected by our communities, which have chosen peace, democracy and the rule of law over violence and intimidation. The safety and security of the public remains my overriding priority, and I will continue to support the work of our policing and security partners in their efforts to keep people safe and protect our communities.”
