Army probing claim that officers bought weapons on black market
A Defence Forces investigation is under way into claims that serving officers were involved in buying illegal weapons in another country.
It is understood that the inquiry into the allegations is being carried out by military police investigators and concerns a small number of serving army officers.
The probe has been going on for several weeks, but the Sunday Independent has learned that so far it has not stood up the claims.
News of the investigation only came to light in the Dail last Wednesday.
A brief written reply by Defence Minister Tony Killeen confirmed the move but did not give any details.
He had been asked by Sinn Fein's Martin Ferris for his views on reports that serving officers in the Defence Forces have been implicated in buying illegal arms, and if he would make a statement on the matter.
Mr Killeen replied: "I am advised by the military authorities that they are conducting an investigation into the matters referred to by the deputy.
"In these circumstances it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the matter until this investigation has been concluded".
Yesterday, Mr Killeen declined to elaborate on his statement, saying it still stood.
The Dail was not told the nature of the allegations. However, it is understood that they centre on claims by Clare businessman Gerry Walshe, who is a constituent of Mr Killeen, that Irish Army officers were involved in purchasing arms on the black market in South Africa for a group operating in the Seychelles.
The businessman, who is an electrical contractor with a background in security, claims he came upon the evidence from an Irish-based security contractor. The claims come amid growing Irish involvement in the Seychelles.
The businessman, who is an electrical contractor with a background in security, claims he came upon the evidence from an Irish-based security contractor. The claims come amid growing Irish involvement in the Seychelles.
