TWO men are being questioned by gardai after raids on two homes in west Donegal earlier today.
The swoop came as gardai step up their inquiries into claims that a paedophile ring was operating in the Gaoth Dobhair area over the past two decades.
Two weeks ago serial rapist Michael Ferry was jailed for 14 years after pleading guilty to sex attacks on local boys in the area.
Gardai confirmed two properties are being searched and the two people arrested are being questioned by detectives – one at Glenties garda station and one at Letterkenny garda station.
They are being held under Section 4 of the 1984 Criminal Justice Act and are being questioned about ‘serious assault’ allegations.
The development comes after reports that another associate of Ferry has had serious sex assault allegations made against him.
We understand that a special detective unit – under the command of the Assistant Commissioner for the area – is reviewing all cases and all allegations made both in the past and in the last few days.
Up to five suspects have been identified following the conviction of Ferry.
There was outrage nationally when it was learned that Ferry was convicted in 2002 – yet was given his casual job back at Ardscoil Mhuire by Colaiste Cholmcille where he went on to abuse more boys.
Justice Minister Alan Shatter has confirmed that he has received a further report from the Garda Commissioner in relation to the Michael Ferry abuse scandal.
Confirming receipt of the report, a spokesperson for Mr Shatter said: “In the report the Commissioner has indicated that he has asked the Assistant Commissioner of the Northern Region to investigate if any outstanding matters arise for An Garda Siochana that would require a file to the DPP including the role played by school management and their knowledge of Mr Ferry’s conviction.”
The spokesperson added: “In the circumstances the Minister does not propose to make any further public comment at this stage.”
Gardai say they are no releasing any further information due to the sensitive nature of the case.
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