PSNI gets more time to question suspects in dissident operation

Detectives have been granted five more days to question seven men arrested in a major operation against suspected dissident republican activity.

The other five men detained in the raid on a house in Newry, Co Down, have been released from custody pending reports being sent to the Public Prosecution Service in Northern Ireland.

The operation was carried out on Monday night by officers investigating the Continuity IRA.

The suspects were aged between 36 and 75, some from the Republic of Ireland. They were detained using anti-terrorism powers and may be held for up to 28 days.

PSNI Det Supt Kevin Geddes said: "Detectives from Serious Crime Branch who arrested 12 men on Monday, 10 November, in the Ardcarn Park area of Newry, have been granted an additional five days by a court to question seven of the suspects.

“The five other arrested males, aged 36, 38, 44, 45 and 48 have been released pending a report to the PPS.”

The seven continue to be questioned at Antrim police station.

The Continuity IRA is one of several relatively small but dangerous armed republican groups opposed to the peace process in Northern Ireland. Police are on high alert for attacks by extremists.

Press Association