Suspicious Package Prompts Security Alert at Dublin’s Merrion Square
A security operation unfolded at Merrion Square in Dublin on Tuesday following the delivery of a suspicious package to the Iona Institute, an advocacy group promoting the Christian religion.
David Quinn, Chief Executive of the Iona Institute, reported receiving a small package in the post around lunchtime.Upon opening it, a white powder spilled onto his hands and desk, accompanied by a handwritten note reading “Happy anthrax.”
Mr. Quinn stated that three other individuals were present when the package was opened. He promptly contacted the Gardaí, who responded with significant concern and later alerted the Army Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.
As a precaution,a cordon was established around the Iona Institute building,and Merrion Square South was temporarily closed to traffic.Gardaí confirmed they were alerted to the suspicious package on Tuesday afternoon and requested the assistance of the EOD team.
The security operation, occurring near Leinster House, caused disruption to traffic in the area. Gardaí were still conducting investigations at the premises as of Tuesday evening.
the incident evokes memories of the 2001 anthrax attacks in the United States, where spores sent through the postal system to politicians and news organizations resulted in five fatalities. Anthrax is a serious disease typically caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacteria.
