Soldier arrested over firearms linked to criminal activity

ARMY representatives yesterday warned soldiers to report any approaches made to them by criminals after it emerged a young private is being investigated by gardaí for handling illegal firearms.

The Dublin soldier was arrested by gardaí on Tuesday under the section 30 of the Offences against the State Act. He was taken into custody in connection with the possession of illegal firearms which, according to reports, were linked to criminal activity.

A source indicated the soldier was linked to at least two incidents of possession of explosives. A file is being prepared for the DPP.