Airport-alert man still in custody

A man remains in Garda custody tonight after sparking a security alert at Dublin Airport.

A firearm was discovered in the man’s hand luggage as he passed through security screening in the departure lounge this afternoon.

The passenger, a 25-year-old Irishman, was due to board a charter flight to Egypt with tour company First Choice.

An airport spokeswoman said the man was going through security screening when an item in his hand luggage aroused suspicion among security staff.

A firearm was discovered in his bag.

The man was arrested by Airport Police and taken to Santry Garda Station for questioning. His cargo luggage was also removed from the plane.

Gardaí said the man was being held under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act.

He can be detained for 72 hours.