Irish police have arrested two people after intercepting a vehicle carrying a fully assembled explosive device believed to have been destined for Northern Ireland. The operation, carried out in County Monaghan, is being described as one of the most significant counter-terrorism successes in recent years.

The vehicle was stopped during an intelligence-led operation targeting suspected dissident republican activity. Specialist bomb disposal teams were deployed to the scene, where the device was made safe before being removed for forensic examination. Authorities have not released details about the type of explosive but confirmed it was fully constructed and capable of use.

A woman in her 20s was arrested at the scene, while a man in his 40s was detained during a follow-up operation. Both remain in custody as investigators continue to examine the suspected network behind the plot and determine the intended target of the device.

Security officials believe the swift intervention prevented a potentially devastating attack, highlighting the continued threat posed by dissident republican groups despite years of relative stability in the region. Investigations involving Irish and Northern Irish authorities remain ongoing, with further arrests not being ruled out.