Gardaí have confirmed that a handgun seized in an operation targeting dissident republican activities in Co Louth was loaded with five bullets.

A rifle, also seized during the search of lands at Raskeagh outside Dundalk, did not contain ammunition.

Gardaí also discovered components for other guns.

The army bomb disposal unit assisted gardaí and a number of items were removed to the Curragh army camp where they will be examined.

The operation began last night and continued for most of today.

No arrests have been made.