A 25-year-old law student has been granted bail after appearing before court in Co Meath charged with possession of explosives following a bomb interception near the Border, according to gardaí.
Vehicle Interception on the N2 and Explosives Discovery
Gardaí stopped the vehicle driven by Perrie Sullivan on the N2 at Aclint, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, because she was suspected to be involved in what an officer outlined in court as “in IRA operational activity.” During a subsequent search of the vehicle, authorities discovered a bag in the rear seat containing Semtex and a detonator. The discovery prompted an immediate evacuation of the area, and Perrie Sullivan was arrested at the scene.
Bail Hearing and Strict Conditions Imposed
Gardaí strongly objected to granting bail due to the severe nature of the offence. However, defence solicitor Gavin Booth, of Phoenix Law, told the court that his client had merely been asked to transport a bag to the North without knowing its contents, arguing she had been “manipulated.” Booth noted that Perrie Sullivan lived with her father in Kildare, wanted to become a barrister, and that her parents were completely devastated by the arrest. Booth stated that if released, her parents intended to keep her on a “tight rein” to ensure she abides by all conditions.
Judge Raymond Finnegan ultimately agreed to allow bail, subject to an array of stringent requirements. The conditions include an independent €15,000 surety, the surrender of her passport, mandatory residence at a garda-approved address, a 24/7 available mobile phone number, daily check-ins at Naas Garda station, and a strict curfew from 9:00 pm to 7:00 am. Furthermore, gardaí requested—and secured—a condition prohibiting her from having any contact with anyone in the Saoradh political party or the New IRA.
Charges Against Second Suspect
In related developments, gardaí confirmed that a second suspect, a man in his 40s, was also charged on Saturday in connection with the ongoing investigation. He was scheduled to appear before the Special Criminal Court on Saturday evening at 8:15 pm. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly previously characterized the overall operation as “an extremely significant seizure.”
Did You Know? Isobella Perrie Sullivan was wearing a pink White Fox Boutique hoodie when she appeared before the special sitting of Trim District Court on Friday evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges does Isobella Perrie Sullivan face?
She is charged with possession of explosives after a bomb containing Semtex and a detonator was found in a car.
Where was the vehicle intercepted?
The vehicle was stopped by gardaí on the N2 at Aclint, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, near the Border.
What are the terms of her bail?
Her bail conditions include an independent €15,000 surety, surrender of her passport, daily sign-ins at Naas Garda station, a 9:00 pm to 7:00 am curfew, and no contact with members of the Saoradh political party or the New IRA.
How might the strict surveillance conditions impact the ongoing security investigation into border-related explosive seizures?