Irish police intercepted a military-grade car bomb equipped with its own power source and detonator near the Northern Ireland border and have arrested a second suspect, after a vehicle stop on the N2 south of Carrickmacross on July 22. The device was a large under-vehicle bomb that officers believe was bound for Northern Ireland and have since rendered safe.
Police Commissioner Justin Kelly described the explosives as material of major significance intended for suspected dissident republicans who attempted to smuggle the device hidden in a vehicle’s boot. A man in his 40s was arrested after the female driver in her 20s was initially detained.
Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan said the seizure is deeply concerning and evidence of the ongoing threat posed by dissident republican activity. Both suspects are being questioned.