Crime World Episode 1298: Islamic terror radicalisation - Gardaí making ‘early interventions’ as young people at risk
Dec 4, 2025
Ken Foy, an investigative journalist, joins the conversation to reveal insights from Detective Chief Superintendent Brian Woods of the Garda Special Detective Unit. They discuss ten proactive interventions aimed at preventing Islamic radicalisation among at-risk youth. Foy explains how intelligence is gathered to identify these individuals and describes the sensitive efforts involved in community policing. The dialogue also touches on the rise of far-right threats and notable cases, portraying a shifting landscape in Ireland’s counter-terrorism approach.
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Teen Radicalised Into Violence
- A 16-year-old in Galway was found with sketches of beheadings and IS paraphernalia after attacking an army chaplain.
- Web history showed he had been radicalised to Islamic terrorism online.
Early Interventions Focus On Prevention
- The SDU carried out around 10 early interventions for young people at risk of Islamic radicalisation.
- None of those cases resulted in criminal prosecutions, highlighting prevention over prosecution.
Radicalisation Is Largely Online And Hidden
- Intelligence comes from online monitoring, community tip-offs and international police partners.
- Many at-risk individuals lead isolated lives and their online activities go unnoticed by family.