Irish police have foiled a suspected dissident republican attack by intercepting a sophisticated bomb near the border with Northern Ireland. The device was found on Wednesday in a vehicle stopped on the N2 road south of Carrickmacross, County Monaghan, as part of an intelligence-led operation conducted by Ireland’s Special Detective Unit.
The bomb, described by authorities as “highly sophisticated,” contained military-grade explosives, a power unit, and a detonator. Security sources indicated that the device was likely intended to be attached as an under-car explosive for use in Northern Ireland. The Irish Defence Forces’ Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was called in to safely examine and make the device safe.
Two people were arrested in connection with the investigation: Isobella Perrie Sullivan, a 25-year-old law student from Clane, County Kildare, who was charged with possession of explosives and appeared before Trim District Court; and a man in his 40s, believed to be linked to the New IRA, who remains in custody in Dublin. Authorities are continuing investigations to identify others involved, including potential bomb-makers.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly described the operation as a “significant seizure” and stressed the ongoing threat posed by a small group of dissident republicans who reject the terms of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. He noted that this group, often described as radicalised republicans, continues to maintain weapons and explosives, posing a persistent security risk. Kelly also highlighted that young people are increasingly being drawn into such activities.
The New IRA, considered the largest active dissident republican group, has been implicated in several recent attacks, including attempted car bombings targeting police stations in Northern Ireland. The group, with an estimated 20 to 30 members and about 200 supporters, combines armed actions with organized crime but has not succeeded in undermining the peace established under the Good Friday Agreement.
Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck welcomed the operation, noting close cooperation between Irish and Northern Irish authorities. He expressed a joint commitment to counter the dissident republican threat, which has included crude attacks in recent months such as hijacked vehicles packed with explosives driven to police facilities.
Security sources emphasized that the sophistication of the bomb marks a notable escalation compared to previous crude devices seen in recent years. The construction required advanced mechanical and electrical knowledge, raising concerns that individuals may be radicalized and operating with greater technical skill, sometimes influenced through online channels rather than traditional paramilitary networks.
This incident underscores ongoing intelligence efforts by Gardaí and their counterparts in the UK to monitor and prevent dissident activities, though it also raises questions about resource allocation for counter-terrorism since the peace agreement. Despite the disruption of some plots, security officials agree that the threat from dissident republicans remains active and could persist for the foreseeable future.