Gardaí release two men held after theft of Offaly artefact

Gardaí have released two men in their 30s who were being questioned in connection with the theft of a religious artefact in Co Offaly.

The artefact was stolen from St Manchan’s Church in Boher shortly after 1.30pm yesterday.

Described as the 'Precious shrine of St Manchan', the piece is of priceless historical value.

The men were arrested when their car was stopped by gardaí after witnesses reported seeing a green car and two men leave the area in the direction of Shannonbridge.

They were released this afternoon and a file is being prepared for the DPP.