Gardai have begun searching a forest as part of the investigation into the murder of an Irishwoman who disappeared two-years-ago.
Saoirse Smyth, 28, was last seen in Omeath in Co Louth, where she had been living, in April 2017.
She had also been seen in Belfast that same month, though had not been in contact with her family.
Gardai, who are assisting the PSNI in the investigation, began combing a forest in the Omeath area on Monday morning.
Specialist cadaver search dogs and forensic archaeologists are involved in the operation.
A garda spokesman said: "An Garda Síochána have commenced a search in a forested area in Omeath, Co Louth.
"The search is being conducted by Detectives from the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NBCI), supported by the Louth Divisional Search Team, Garda Technical Bureau, specialist Forensic Archaeologist and specialist Cadaver Search dogs.
"Investigators from the Police Service of Northern Ireland will also be assisting."
Gardai and PSNI investigators in July 2018 carried out a technical examination of a house in the same area.
Saoirse is described as having very distinctive red hair, being five feet tall and of slim build.
Gardai are appealing to anyone with information on her disappearance or murder to come forward.
The spokesman added: "An Garda Síochána is asking anyone who has any information in relation to the murder/disappearance of Saoirse Smyth to contact the incident room in Dundalk Garda Station at 042 9388470 or the Garda Confidential Phone line at 1800 666 111 or The Police Service of Northern Ireland at the PSNI incident room Ladas Drive on 101 or 00442890700355.
"Alternatively information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."
