Gardaí have carried out searches all over the country as part of an investigation into the activities of an organised crime gang with links to dissident republicans.

The searches are part of a long-running investigation into organised crime, focused on a Dublin businessman with links to the Real IRA.

Over 30 searches took place in Dublin, Kildare, Cork and Louth at homes, accountants and solicitors' offices, storage depots and a hotel.

Over 100 gardaí from national and specialist units, including the Organised Crime Unit and the Criminal Assets Bureau took part in the searches.

The businessman is believed to be under the protection of the dissident group, which is suspected of being involved in the murder of Andy Connors, who was shot dead last August.

Documentation, computers, cash, antique furniture, paintings, a handgun and a shotgun were seized.

No arrests have been made but gardaí say investigations are ongoing.