ARMED COPS ON PATROL AT THE MONK'S HOUSE

Fears of feud attack as Hutch lives in open after Spain return

- JOHN HAND

Chief Reporter GARDAI are being supported by armed cops as they carry out regular patrols around the home of Gerry "The Monk" Hutch, the Irish Mirror has learned.

The former crime boss, 60, is back in his plush Clontarf home, North Dublin, since his return to Ireland after spending three months in Spain.

Officers are keeping abreast of his movements but sources say he is living life in the open.

However, operations have resumed for The Monk's own safety, with local cops regularly patrolling around his home in The Paddocks along with the Armed Support Unit at times.

A source said: "Gardai were aware he had returned and I suppose the things that were in place before he left just resumed.

"And the local gardai there are supported by the Armed Support Unit. He's keeping his head down but he's around and not afraid to be in public.

"But gardai have to keep him under watch because the fact is, the feud threat still remains.