Man arrested in bomb hoax investigation

A man has been arrested in the Republic over the Wattlebridge security alert that shut down the main Cavan-Clones for protracted periods in recent weeks to allow the PSNI carry out the investigation.

The road closure was caused when the Continuity IRA claimed it planted an explosive device in the area, also claiming it had shot at a PSNI helicopter flying over the area. The PSNI stated that only a civilian helicopter was in the area at the time.

In a statement to The Anglo-Celt the Garda Press Office confirmed the arrest: “Gardaí carried out a joint search operation with PSNI on Thursday, January 28, 2021 in Cavan and arrested one man (mid 40s) in relation to the operation. He is currently detained under Section 30, Offences Against the State Act, 1939 in Cavan Garda Station.”

The man is being questioned by officers from the Garda Special Detective Unit under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act. It is understood he is thought to be a senior dissident republican.

Speaking to the media PSNI South Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Andy Freeburn said: “We know from speaking with the local community, it is clear the people responsible for the disruption, which lasted almost 12 days, have no support.

“At a time when the community finds itself battling a global health pandemic, the community shouldn’t find itself also battling road closures, hoax devices, public transport disruption and rogue claims about firing at a helicopter above homes. The actions of those responsible offer nothing to a community already under pressure. They are reckless and unwanted.”