Gardaí Warns Of Increased Terror Threat During Seized Weapons Display

Garda officers are warning of an increased terror threat in the run up to the 1916 centenary after showcasing recovered weaponry at its headquarters.

Officers revealed a large quantity weapons seized over the last two years during the exhibition yesterday, 06 January.

Devices included home-made rockets, explosives and a beer keg bomb recovered during searches at Kilcurry, Co Louth in May 2014.

In addition, Gardaí seized over 30 firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition in their efforts to tackle dissident republican activities.

Garda Assistant Commissioner John O'Mahony said: "When you look at some of these devices and the way they are operated, it shows an increasing sign of sophistication in relation to engineering."

It is thought that this years 1916 Easter Rising commemorations could be targeted by dissident groups.

Mr O'Mahony added: "We will be keeping a close eye to see if any of these groups have any plans around 1916.

"Idealism and peer pressure play a part in this process but if people are considering doing this we are out there and we are monitoring the situation."

(LM/CD)