Irish police have intercepted a vehicle carrying what officials described as an “extremely significant” bomb that was allegedly being transported across the border for use in Northern Ireland.
The vehicle was stopped in County Monaghan on Wednesday during an intelligence-led operation targeting dissident republican activity. Authorities believe the explosive device was intended for an attack on a police station in Northern Ireland.
A woman in her 20s has since been charged and is scheduled to appear before a court in County Meath, while a man in his 40s remains in police custody.
Police Suspect New IRA Involvement
Security sources believe the New IRA was likely behind the planned attack, although investigations remain ongoing.
The suspect vehicle was intercepted on the N2 near Carrickmacross at approximately 3:00 p.m. local time.
Irish Police Commissioner Justin Kelly confirmed officers recovered a fully assembled explosive device from the vehicle.
According to Irish media reports, the bomb contained a power unit, detonator and military-grade explosives.
Authorities Say Bomb Could Have Caused Major Damage
Commissioner Kelly described the recovered device as highly dangerous, stressing that it was not simply bomb-making materials but a complete explosive.
He warned the device had the potential to cause extensive destruction had it reached its intended destination.
Kelly also confirmed the operation was intelligence-led and based on information gathered about those allegedly involved.
Irish Government Praises Security Operation
Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan described the discovery as deeply concerning, saying it highlighted the continuing threat posed by dissident republican organisations.
He praised Irish police for preventing what he called a potentially devastating terrorist attack and confirmed the explosive device had been safely defused.
The minister added that authorities remain committed to disrupting extremist activities before they threaten public safety.
Cross-Border Security Cooperation Continues
Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant thanked Irish authorities for their swift response, saying the operation undoubtedly saved lives on both sides of the border.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) also praised the successful operation, describing it as another example of strong security cooperation between British and Irish law enforcement agencies.
Officials confirmed both police services will continue sharing intelligence throughout the investigation.
Political Leaders Condemn Planned Attack
Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill condemned those responsible, saying they represented only a destructive agenda with no public support.
Democratic Unionist Party leader Gavin Robinson said the incident raised serious concerns about the ongoing threat from dissident republican groups.
Justice Minister Naomi Long also strongly condemned the planned attack, stating there could never be any justification for violence that puts innocent lives at risk.
Leaders from the SDLP, Ulster Unionist Party and Ireland’s Fine Gael similarly praised Irish police and defence forces for preventing what could have become another deadly attack.
Dissident Republican Threat Remains
Dissident republican organisations continue to reject the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which largely ended decades of violence known as the Troubles.
Although groups such as the New IRA are significantly smaller than the former Provisional IRA, they continue to possess explosives, firearms and improvised weapons capable of carrying out deadly attacks.
Security agencies on both sides of the Irish border say they remain committed to disrupting these organisations and preventing future acts of terrorism.
