Seven men arrested in Co Cavan after gardaí foiled an alleged extortion and blackmail attempt have been released without charge.
Four cars were stopped during an intelligence-led operation last night.
A number of firearms as well as ammunition were seized.
Balaclavas were also found in one of the cars and mobile phones were recovered.
It is understood the firearms seized included two automatic machine guns and a semi-automatic pistol.
The men - aged in their 20s, 30s and 40s - were taken to Ballyconnell and Cavan garda stations for questioning.
They were released without charge tonight and files will be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
