The artefact has been located
Gardai wish to thank all members of the public and media for their assistance in locating the artefact.
Garda Press Office
Gardai in Tullamore have this afternoon 2nd June, 2012 released both men from custody.
A file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Original press release below refers.
Garda Press Office
Gardaí investigating the theft of a religious artefact in Co.Offaly have arrested two men in their 30s. The artefact was stolen from St Manchan’s Church, Boher, Co Offaly shortly after 1.30 pm on the 1st June 2012.
The artefact is described as the 'Precious shrine of St Manchan' It is approx. 2.5 ft in length by 2 ft in height made of yew wood and gilt bronze. It is of priceless historical value.
The alarm was raised shortly after 1.30 pm and witnesses reported seeing a green car and two men leave the area in the direction of Shannonbridge.
A car was subsequently stopped on the N5 and two male occupants arrested on suspicion of theft. They are currently been detained at Tullamore Garda Station under Sec 4 of the CJA 1984. No property has been recovered to date.
Gardaí are appealing for anyone with information, particularly anyone in the Boher to Shannonbridge area, to contact Tullamore Garda Station on 057 9327600.
