Army explosive experts called in after 20 pipe bombs discovered during Garda operation

Gardai called in Army bomb disposal experts after the shocking discovery of 20 pipe bombs during an intelligence-led operation in Co Louth today.

Gardaí attached to the Divisional Drug Unit based at Drogheda Garda station conducted an intelligence led operation linked to the seizure of cannabis valued at €190,000 that took place on Tuesday 29th April, 2025 in Ardee, Co. Louth.

During the course of the search a total of 20 pipe bombs were located. A cordon was established and the Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team attended the scene.

The EOD team examined the suspect devices and subsequently made them safe. The devices were removed from the area for further examination and the cordon lifted.

In a separate operation, this morning, Wednesday 7th May 2025 over 100 Gardaí conducted a search operation across Dublin and wider Eastern Region targeting an Organised Crime Group (OCG) suspected of being involved in organised prostitution and money laundering offences.

The searches were conducted at several businesses and residential addresses in Meath, Dublin and Kildare.

Led by Detectives from the Serious Crime Unit based at the Bridewell Garda Station in Dublin, this operation was supported by the Dublin Crime Response Team (DCRT), Garda National Protective Services Bureau, Garda National Economic Crime Bureau, Emergency Response Unit (ERU), Armed Support Unit (ASU), Garda Dog Unit as well as local teams from the Dublin North Central Crime functional areas.

Today's activity forms part of a broader effort by An Garda Síochána to target and dismantle OCGs that are benefitting from organised prostitution.

Two adult males have been arrested on foot of Court Bench Warrants, and a third adult male is currently detained in relation to the sale and supply of controlled drugs.