Updated at 11pm
GARDA TEAMS WHO carried out an intensive search at an area of marshland off the Ardee Road in Dundalk today have wound down their operation for the day.
It’s part of the investigation into the disappearance of Ciara Breen, who went missing aged 17 in 1997.
The Dundalk teenager was last seen at her home at Bachelor’s Walk in the town in the early hours of Thursday morning on 13 February that year.
Last year, the investigation was given fresh impetus when two witnesses came forward and spoke to gardaí about potential sightings.
Earlier this year, a man was arrested in connection with her disappearance. He was held overnight at Drogheda garda station but was released without charge.
Speaking to reporters at the site today, Superintendent Gerry Curley said the search area was known as Balmer’s Bog.
The search team, from nearby Dundalk Garda Station, was assisted by members of the Garda Sub Aqua Unit and the Technical Bureau using specialist equipment.
Gardaí are due back at the site tomorrow.
The current phase of the investigation is expected to continue for a number of weeks.
In 2004, gardaí released and age-progression photograph of Ciara Breen (above) as a new missing persons website was launched.
Anyone who may have information in relation to the teenager’s disappearance is being asked to contact any garda station or the Garda Confidential Line on 1-800-666-111.
With reporting by Daragh Brophy.
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