A 49-year-old man has been arrested in Co. Donegal as part of an investigation into dissident republican activity.

The man was arrested in Ballybofey last night after Gardaí noticed a group of men acting suspiciously.

Gardai have now mounted a number of checkpoints around the county and searches are underway for three other men who fled the scene.

The man arrested is being held at Letterkenny Garda Station under section 30 of the offences agains the State Act.

The investigation is being co-ordinated by Superintendent Vincent O’Brien – he’s told Highland Radio that people should contact the Gardai if they have any information.

“We’re looking for three men who took to the fields, following a Garda stop at a checkpoint yesterday evening” he said.

“We would appreciate any assistance in that regard; any sightings of individuals in fields or outhouses”.

“We would potentially treat every situation as dangerous so I would appeal to the public not to approach these individuals, but to contact the Gardai immediately” he added.