In a surprising turn of events, three members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA), including Robert 'Bobby' O’Connor, executed a high-stakes escape from Mountjoy Prison in Dublin. The escape plan came to fruition on a day marked by intense political and social tensions in Ireland, where the protracted conflict between the British government and Irish republicans was escalating. The individuals involved carefully orchestrated the hijacking of a helicopter that was to transport a prisoner from the prison yard. With support from accomplices on the ground, they successfully demanded the pilot to land within the exercise yard of Mountjoy Prison.

The timing of the escape was critical, with the helicopter landing directly inside the compound where prisoners were entitled to outdoor exercise. This brazen move not only highlighted the vulnerabilities in prison security but also elevated the profile of the IRA's ongoing efforts to combat British rule in Northern Ireland. Once on board, O’Connor and his associates quickly took control, forcing the pilot to fly them away from Dublin and back into areas of republican support. This event not only served to boost the morale of the IRA supporters but also raised questions about the effectiveness of the Irish penal system at the time.

Following their dramatic escape, the trio received considerable attention and support from sympathizers. While the authorities launched a massive manhunt, the incident underscored the lengths to which the IRA would go to achieve their objectives. Furthermore, it reflected the extreme measures taken during the broader context of the Irish conflict, piquing international interest in Ireland's political situation and the measures taken by both sides during the Troubles.