Progress made in identifying two suspected shop arsonists

GARDAÍ have made “good progress” in identifying two men suspected of carrying out an arson attack on a head shop 10 days ago.

Detectives suspect that paramilitaries, most likely the Real IRA, were behind the attack, which completely destroyed the Nirvana head shop and two other adjoining buildings.

The attackers were captured on CCTV cameras and detectives are confirming their identities. Garda sources said the motive for the attack seemed to be a “show of force” by Real IRA elements in the area.

“It was them showing muscle for the local community – ‘we’re doing this on behalf of the community’ thing,” said a Garda source.

Nirvana is located on Capel Street, in Dublin’s north inner city. The Real IRA has long had a presence in nearby areas.

Some €485,000 in cash was located in a safe in Nirvana after owner Jim Bellamy told firefighters of its existence.

Garda sources spoken to yesterday said there was no indication the shop was targeted in a “protection racket”, despite some speculation that might be the case.

Some local activists remain unconvinced over the involvement of the Real IRA, as they have yet to claim responsibility, which they would typically do in such situations.

The Special Detective Unit, which targets paramilitary gangs, is understood to be assisting detectives at the Bridewell Garda Station.

Gardaí are also examining whether paramilitaries are behind a second arson attack on the ‘Happy Hippy’ head shop on North Frederick Street last Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Labour Party yesterday published a draft private members bill to restrict head shops. Drafted by Jan O’Sullivan, health spokesperson, and Joe Costello, spokesperson on human rights, it proposes using planning laws to control the area.