THREAT: ‘Mr Big’ orchestrated attacks
MASKED criminals attacked the family homes of associates of Alan Ryan threatening to kill them. The move marks a new confidence among criminal figures feuding with the Real IRA in Dublin. Three homes were targeted last Saturday as part of the intimidation campaign.
"They were wearing balaclavas and made threats at these homes," said a source.
"It shows they're growing in confidence."
The homes targeted included the family home of Daragh and Dean Evans in Grange Park Rise in Raheny, on the city's northside. Daragh (23), is currently before the courts charged with firearms offences as part of an investigation into the murder of gang boss Micka 'the Panda' Kelly last year.
Thug
Daragh Evans and Alan Ryan's brother Vinny are charged with the possession of an assault rifle and revolver at Clonshaugh Walk, Coolock, Dublin, on September 15, 2011. They have also been charged with IRA membership. The home of a younger associate of Ryan was also targeted.
The third home targeted was the family home of a man who we cannot name as he is before the courts. The tattooed thug (31), from Baldoyle, was a close associate of Ryan. He no longer lives in the home which was targeted and is currently residing on the southside of the city.
The Sunday World revealed earlier this year that the RIRA man had been warned there was a credible threat on his life. It is understood the threat came from the same gang who killed Ryan. Two key figures in the gang are a criminal dubbed 'Mr Big', who is originally from the Malahide Road and a tiger kidnapper originally from Coolock.
ATTACKED: Daragh and Dean Evans were linked with slain RIRA boss Alan Ryan
Mr Big fled Ireland following Ryan's murder, but has been back and has held meetings with other crime figures. Less than two weeks ago he was arrested by gardai in the south inner city in the company of a well-known drug dealer. Sources say the masked men who called to the doors of the homes claimed to be part of the Criminal Action Force. However, the prime suspects for the attack are associates of Mr Big.
It is understood criminal figures are now using the name Criminal Action Force, which is supposedly an amalgamation of criminal gangs in dispute with RIRA. However, it is not believed the group exists in any cohesive way other than as separate gangs using the name to frighten dissidents.
