Gardaí sharpen focus on Islamic radicals

Gardaí are expanding the size and expertise of its secretive unit tasked with combating Islamic extremists. The garda’s security chief told the Irish Examiner that the investment would enhance the strength and investigative skills of Counter Terrorism International.

In response to recent criticism from frontline garda supervisors that they weren’t being briefed on the threat, or trained to deal with Brussels- or Paris-style attacks, assistant commissioner John O’Mahoney said a network of trained commanders had been put in place nationwide and training exercises held.

Giving a rare in-depth interview, the head of garda crime and security said Counter-Terrorism International was being expanded.