Irish police have intercepted a car carrying a "extremely significant" bomb intended for an attack in Northern Ireland, authorities announced Friday. The vehicle was stopped during an operation targeting dissident republican activities on Wednesday, with two people subsequently arrested.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly confirmed the discovery of the explosive device, which police sources in Northern Ireland believe was likely linked to the New IRA. The interception occurred on the N2 near Carrickmacross, County Monaghan, around 3:00 PM on Wednesday.

A woman in her 20s, who was driving the vehicle, was arrested at the scene. A man in his 40s was apprehended later. According to Irish broadcaster RTÉ, gardaí sources indicated the bomb was fully assembled, containing a power unit, detonator, and military-grade explosives.

Commissioner Kelly described the device as "extremely significant" and capable of causing "significant damage." He stated that the operation was intelligence-led, indicating police had information regarding those involved. He noted that a "small minority" of radicalized republicans continue to pose a threat due to their rejection of the Good Friday Agreement and failure to decommission weapons.

Ireland's Minister for Justice, Jim O'Callaghan, called the incident "very worrying" but expressed encouragement that the gardaí were able to apprehend suspects and defuse the device. He commended the police for preventing a "very serious criminal act."

Northern Ireland Secretary Sir Chris Bryant praised the gardaí's "quick, decisive action," stating that intercepting the bomb "undoubtedly saved lives and kept communities safe on both sides of the border." He emphasized the continued importance of strong cross-border security cooperation.

While the immediate threat has been neutralized, the incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by dissident republican groups. Authorities continue to monitor such activities, underscoring the persistent nature of these threats.

The successful interception is a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and cross-border collaboration between police forces in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.