The Garda Underwater Unit is searching parts of the Grand Canal in Kildare and Dublin after the reported discovery of body parts in the water.
The discoveries were made near Sallins and on a stretch of the canal at Fonthill near Clondalkin.
The grim discovery of two bags was believed to be made by members of the public yesterday evening.
It comes after the torso of 33-year-old Kenneth O’Brien was found in a suitcase in the canal near Ardclough more than a week ago.
The find is a major breakthrough for gardai investigating Mr O’Brien’s murder – and may help to establish where the father of one was killed.
Local Councillor James Lawless lives just 300 metres from the crime scene in Sallins.
The area is well used by walkers and is a cul de sac, which makes him think that someone would have seen something suspicious.
The items found in the river are to be forensically examined later this afternoon to determine if they are indeed parts of Kenneth O’Brien.
The area in Sallins and Fonthill meanwhile remain sealed off while Gardai carry out further searches.
In recent days they’ve searched parts of the canal and farmhouses near Ardclough where Mr O’Brien once worked and Gardai are said to be following one particular line of inquiry.
