The Dripsey Ambush is infamous not just for the failure of the ambush itself but because of the dramatic events that took place in its aftermath. The IRA ignored warnings that their position had been compromised leading to the capture of eight of its men and two civilians. In the aftermath a local unionist, and her chauffer, who gave up the IRAs position were held hostage in an attempt to negotiate the release the captured IRA men. After failing to do so and after the execution of five of the IRA captives, both were executed.
