A GROUP of Dublin criminals have joined forces over the past two weeks to tackle the RIRA.
The so-called Criminal Action Force (CAF) is made up of gangsters from the capital who say they are sick of the dissidents throwing their weight around and moving in on their turf.
They have been paying "visits" to members of the RIRA in North Dublin and threatening them that if they don't stop muscling in on their territory they will suffer the consequences.
A security source last night said the CAF has increased its presence in recent weeks after the assassination of crime godfather Eamon Kelly.
Set up in 2010 to counter extortion demands from the RIRA and its sinceslain boss Alan Ryan, it has killed several people it says were involved in the terror organisation.
They have claimed responsibility for the murder of dissident-linked hitman Daniel Gaynor in Finglas over the summer and a shooting at the Player's Lounge pub where three innocent men were hit in a case of mistaken identity.
They also claimed the murder in Portarlington, Co Laois of Dublin criminal Gerard Eglington, 27, in September, saying he was killed for being in the RIRA.
It is understood the group wants to make a clear statement they are the ones in control of the Dublin criminal underworld.
The source added: "The group, which consists of well known gangsters from across Dublin city, decided to join forces as they were becoming infuriated with the RIRA.
"The murder of Eamon Kelly was the last straw for them. They want the RIRA to know that they are in charge, not them."
The source added: "Members of the CAF have been making calls to the houses of prominent RIRA Dublin brigade members over the past few weeks. They have been warning them that they will be killed unless they take a step back."
The group upped their presence following the murder of crime lord Eamon Kelly almost two weeks ago on December 4. Despite the CAF claiming Kelly, 65, was not a member, they are said to be angered by his death as he was seen as one of the most prominent gang bosses in the country.
It's believed the group is sick and tired of the RIRA and their increasing presence on the Dublin crime scene and finally decided that "enough is enough".
