An ex-boss of the Real IRA - nicknamed the Beast - has been killed in Cork city.

The man named locally as Aidan O'Driscoll was shot at around 5PM yesterday evening in the Blackpool area. He was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead two hours later.

Gardai are investigating if the shooting is connected to dissident republican activity.

Last night, Gardaí recovered two partially burned out vehicles - one on Redemption road in Blackpool and the other in Killeens, County Cork.

No arrests have yet been made but Gardaí are appealing for witnesses or anyone who may have any information to contact them at Mayfield Garda station.