Urgent: Galway Mosque Attack Imminent, Court Hears

UPDATE: A planned attack on a mosque in Galway was deemed ‘imminent’ by gardaí during a court hearing in Portlaoise District Court today. This revelation comes as authorities oppose bail for Karolis Peckauskas, a 38-year-old Lithuanian national, linked to a cross-border investigation into far-right extremism.

During today’s session, Detective Garda Joseph Fahy disclosed that on November 4, critical evidence was gathered during a search of a vehicle registered to Peckauskas in Portlaoise. The search yielded dangerous materials, including six litres of hydrogen peroxide, pipe caps, and documents that appear to outline extremist manifestos.

Gardaí expressed serious concerns, stating, “We fully believe an attack was imminent,” highlighting the urgency of the situation. The court was informed that a video, crucial to the case, showed four masked men, two of whom removed their balaclavas, indicating potential planning for a terrorist act aimed at the Galway mosque.

Judge Andrew Cody ruled that the video, recovered from a co-accused’s phone, could be shown in a closed session after the public and journalists left the courtroom. The footage reportedly depicts a rehearsal of a statement intended to be released following a successful attack, further substantiating the threat.

Peckauskas, who has resided in Ireland since 2006, was denied bail and will remain in custody until December 11. Authorities are actively investigating links between Peckauskas and other far-right groups that have threatened not only the Galway mosque but also asylum centers across Ireland.

This developing story underscores significant concerns regarding rising extremism and the safety of vulnerable communities. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains on high alert, with officials urging vigilance against potential threats.

Stay tuned for updates as this urgent situation develops.