'Extremely significant' bomb in car intercepted on way to NI, Irish police say
BBC News 2026-07-24 11:57:42
Context: Irish police intercepted a car containing an "extremely significant" bomb on Wednesday, as it was being driven from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland. The vehicle was stopped on the N2 near Carrickmacross, County Monaghan, and two people were arrested in connection with the incident. The bomb was intended for use as an under-car bomb in an attack in Northern Ireland.
Key Facts
- The vehicle was stopped during an operation targeting dissident republican activities on Wednesday at about 15:00 local time on the N2 near Carrickmacross, County Monaghan.
- A woman in her 20s, who was the driver of the vehicle, was arrested on Wednesday afternoon, and a man in his 40s was arrested subsequently.
- Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly described the explosive device as an "extremely significant seizure" and stated that it contained a power unit, a detonator, and military-grade explosives.
- Irish police sources reported that the bomb was expected to be used as an under-car bomb in an attack in Northern Ireland, according to RTÉ.
- Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly stated that a small minority of radicalized republicans who did not agree with the Good Friday Agreement continue to pose a threat, and that this seizure was "really concerning".