Gardaí believe there could be a link between a foiled ATM robbery in Co Cavan overnight, and several similar ATM thefts in the north east in recent months.
Three men have been arrested and over €300,000 recovered after the attempted ATM robbery in Virginia early on Wednesday morning.
At around 2.30am, detective and uniform Gardaí intercepted the attempted theft on Main Street in the town.
One man (28) was arrested at the scene and is being held at Carrickmacross Garda station.
A second man, aged 25, was arrested in Virginia on Wednesday afternoon and taken to Bailieborough Garda station.
While a 61-year-old man was later arrested during an operation in Moynalty, Co Meath.
He is being detained at Kells Garda station.
The scene at Virginia has been technically examined by scenes of crime examiners from the Cavan/Monaghan Garda Division.
All three men are being held under section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007.
During the search in Moynalty more than €300,000 was recovered - along with a number of vehicles that have been removed for further examination.
Gardaí are continuing to conduct an examination and search at this location, and further searches could be carried out.
An incident room has been established at Bailieborough Garda station.
Gardai are appealing for anyone who travelled the Virginia/Bailieborough Road and/or were in Virginia town between 1.00am and 3.00am on Wednesday morning to contact Bailieborough Garda station on 042-969-4570, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800-666-111 or any Garda station.
Additional reporting: Stephen McNeice and Shane Beatty
