The arrest and subsequent release of a man in connection with the alleged activities of anti-drugs vigilantes became a general election issue tonight when it emerged the detained was Sinn Fein’s director of elections in North Kerry, Mr James Sheehan.
The party is hopeful its candidate in the constituency, Mr Martin Ferris will gain a seat at the upcoming general election.
Mr Sheehan was detained for questioning about the abduction and beating-up of a man in Castleisland, Co Kerry, in December. He has denied involvement.
A representative of the Concerned Parents Against Drugs group contacted a local newspaper and claimed responsibility for abducting the man, as well as the seizure if €15,000 worth of cannabis resin from him.
The drugs were found close to the spot where the man was attacked by a group of four masked men.
Speculation has linked the vigilante group involved in the incident with Sinn Fein, but Mr Ferris has denied any knowledge of the affair.
He said: "Over the last number of months, we have seen on-going attempts by all of the political parties to engage in negative campaigning against Sinn Fein.
"Without any evidence, and despite Sinn Féin publicly stating that we are entirely against vigilantism in all forms, we have seen the publication of unfounded and unsubstantiated allegations against the party.
"This morning's arrest is an outrageous interference in the political process and is part of this same campaign."
PA