A HOME in Limerick has been levelled in a controlled demolition after it sustained major structural damage in a pipe-bomb attack linked to an ongoing violent feud on the southside of Limerick City.
Gardaí have also been detailed to monitor parents and pupils travelling to and from schools in flashpoint areas in order to protect them from escalating tensions in the gang feud.
“Explosive devices have been used to target homes and individuals, and one such device used during this feud has resulted in a home being demolished due to structural damage,” a Garda Detective told Limerick District Court.
“The extent of this feud has necessitated the detailing of uniformed members of An Garda Síochána outside local schools to prevent further escalations and tensions among feuding parties,” the Detective said.
“Permanent armed patrols” have also been established in certain parts of the city, as Gardaí continue to try to curb the violence.
Gardaí warned that those involved in the feud “pose a serious and active threat” to innocent members of the public.
A recent wave of pipe-bomb attacks, fire-bombings, and drive-by shootings have put Gardaí on a major alert, amid fears that someone will be killed in the violence.
“Gardaí are currently investigating a huge amount of incidents that are attributable to this feud, including incidents of violent disorder, criminal damage, shooting incidents, and incidents where explosive devices have been used to target homes and individuals,” the Garda Detective added.
Other Garda sources said many of those involved in the feud are addicted to cocaine which is fuelling paranoia and adding to tensions.
Dozens of separate Garda investigations into the violence are ongoing however, despite the increase in attacks, Gardaí have so far managed to prevent deaths.
Lately Gardaí have informed a number of people that their lives were in danger in relation to the violence after detectives became aware of active threats against individuals.
Gardaí have also intercepted the transport of guns and drugs through the city, in an attempt to remove risk to life and limb.
A number of individuals suspected of being involved in the feuding have also been taken off the streets and remanded in custody.
Gardaí are actively monitoring three feuds across Limerick, which can routinely escalate and de-escalate at regular stages.
However, An Garda Síochána’s main concern relates to a feud between two groups based on the south side of the city.
Some of the individuals linked to the current feud were closely associated with criminal figures involved in a gang feud that left 20 men dead between the late 90s and mid 2000s.
