The Gardai say close to 50 credible threats to life have been averted in recent months.

Four men are still being questioned after being arrested in Dublin inconnection with a foiled murder attempt on Saturday.

Five firearms seized are being forensically analysed.

Assistant Commissioner John OÂ’Driscoll is head of special crime operations;

Gardai say the number of people before the courts in relation to conspiracy to murder is unprecedented.

 Assistant Commissioner John O’Driscoll says their actions are proving successful;