Seven men remain in garda custody this morning in connection with an armed raid at the home of a business woman in Co. Tipperary.

A couple and their three children - all aged under eight - were in their home in Killenaule when raiders - believed to be members of a Dublin gang - broke in, in the early hours of yesterday morning.

They stole cash and jewellery before escaping in two cars, one of which was the family's Kia jeep.

Five of the suspects were arrested near Naas in Co Kildare - while two others were detained at Newland's Cross in Dublin - following a high speed chase.

Michael O'Toole is crime correspondent with the Irish Daily Star. He spoke to Lunchtime here on Newstalk.

The arrests were made as part Operation Fiacla, targeting criminal gangs involved in robberies around the country.

They seven men aged in their 20s are being held at various garda stations under Section 30 of the Offences against the State Act.