Image caption Advances in technology have prompted gardaí to carry out fresh searches of lakes in County Monaghan

Gardaí (Irish police) are carrying out searches of lakes in the Republic of Ireland for a Northern Ireland man missing for 18 years.

Tony Lynch from Fermanagh was last seen on Fermanagh Street in Clones, County Monaghan, on Sunday, 6 January 2002.

The father of four, who was 54 years old and originally from Magheraveely, had recently moved to Clones.

His family became concerned when he did not turn up for work that week.

Image copyright Gardaí Image caption Mr Lynch was driving a car similar to this one when he disappeared

Mr Lynch did not appear to have brought any of his belongings with him when he went missing.

His car also disappeared and has never been traced.

In a statement, gardaí said they were starting their search at Gortnawhinney Lough near Clones.

On Thursday afternoon, the search moved on to Drum Lough, around 10 miles (16 km) away from the first search site.

It later moved to nearby Long Lough.

Garda Supt Pat O'Connell told BBC News NI the new search was prompted by advancements in drone and sonar technology since Mr Lynch went missing.

Image copyright Garda Press Office Image caption Tony Lynch disappeared on Sunday 6 January 2002

As many as 16 lakes in the local area are set to be searched, with the possibility of further searches taking place in Fermanagh.

The search is being carried out with cross-border cooperation and a member of the PSNI is present in Clones during the operation.

Working with Monaghan Civil Defence, gardaí plan to search lakes and quarries in the area.

They have appealed to anyone with information to contact them.