Explosive material and components seized in Louth

Today's search was part of a 'long-running' investigation

GARDAÍ have seized explosive material during a search in Co Louth today.

Two men have been arrested in connection with the find and are being detained in garda stations in the north-east.

The men who are aged in their 50s and 20s, are being held under the Offences Against the State Act.

Gardaí say today's search is part of a "long-running investigation" and descobed the find seizure of suspected explosive material and compnent parts as "significant.

They were assisted in the search by members of the Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.

Speaking today, Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said, "This is a particularly significant find. This search and arrest operation by our counter-terrorism unit, the Special Detective Unit (SDU), demonstrates the important work carried out by Garda national security personnel every day to protect people on this island.

"It also shows that we must continue to degrade and dismantle the threat from those who are intent on destroying peace by harming others.

"I have been in contact with the PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher this morning and our close co-operation in relation to countering dissident groups continues. I would also like to thank the Defence Forces for its assistance in today’s search operation.”