Gardaí have located a skull as part of the investigation into the discovery of male body parts in Dublin. An upper leg and lower leg were first located at the Thorntons Recycling plant on Killeen Road in Ballyfermot on July 31st.

DNA tests have so far been unable to establish his nationality. It is also unclear how he died.

Further body parts have been found following extensive searches of up to 1,000 tonnes of domestic and industrial waste.

The search operation has now been concluded at the site.

Investigating gardaí are asking anyone concerned about the whereabouts of a male relative or friend to come forward.

300 lines of inquiry are being pursued, while over 250 statements have been taken.

Gardaí have renewed their appeal for information

A post mortem has established that the victim was dismembered.

Further DNA analysis is being carried out at Garda Headquarters to determine his race. While the cause of death is not known, it is believed he may have died 4 or 5 days before his remains were found.

Gardaí have determined that this male was aged between 25 and 45 years, and between 5-foot-8 and 6-foot in height.

There is also evidence that he had undergone neurosurgery in the past, as neurosurgical screws were in either side of his skull.

There is further evidence he underwent bilateral craniotomies - surgery arising from serious head trauma, such as a car accident or a serious assault. It is possible that he may have suffered neurological problems in the aftermath of these surgeries, such as seizure or epilepsy.

Garda spokesperson Superintendent Paul Moran says the identity of the man and his cause of death have yet to be established.

Orignally published 15:39