Irish authorities have brought terrorism-related charges against two men following a cross-border police operation targeting an alleged far-right extremist group.
Court Reveals Disturbing Evidence
Karolis Peckauskas, 38, from Drogheda, County Louth, and Garrett Pollock, 35, from Annalong, County Down, appeared at Portlaoise District Court on Friday facing multiple explosives charges. The men were arrested in a coordinated operation involving police forces from both sides of the Irish border.
Detective Declan O'Connor informed the court that Pollock was allegedly planning a terrorist attack on behalf of a right-wing extremist group. The prosecution presented compelling evidence, including a video recording showing four masked individuals claiming responsibility for an attack on a Galway mosque and threatening future violence against migrant accommodation centres in Ireland.
Chilling Manifesto and Weapons Components
Judge Cody, after clearing the court to view the video evidence, described footage showing men wearing balaclavas standing before a tricolour flag. The judge characterised their statements as a "practice statement" intended for use after a terrorist attack, with the men warning that anyone interfering with their group would become a "target".
Police evidence also included a document described as a "manifesto" for the alleged extremist organisation. Pollock faces charges of possessing explosive substances after components for potential pipe bombs and incendiary devices were allegedly discovered during a Police Service of Northern Ireland search of his home.
Cross-Border Terror Investigation
Both men have been jointly charged with possessing explosive substances in Portlaoise, specifically four threaded pipe end caps and six litres of hydrogen peroxide. The case highlights growing concerns about right-wing extremist activities operating across the Irish border.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full extent of the alleged plot and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved in the planning stages. The case has been adjourned for further proceedings as police continue their inquiries into what appears to be a sophisticated terror planning operation.
