2021

Gardaí at Newbridge Garda Station are investigating an aggravated burglary that took place at a house in Pairc Mhuire between 17.15 and 17.30 on New Years Eve, 31 December 2020.

On the date in question at approximately 17:15 to 17:30 an elderly couple were in their sitting room when the doorbell rang. The owner of the house opened the door and noticed a male not known to him, standing at the front door, dressed in dark clothing and wearing what appeared to be a hat and mask. This male pushed past the injured party and went into the sitting room where the second injured party was.

Approximately four other males then entered the house through the front door, into the hallway and upstairs in the house.

The first suspect had what is described as a dark coloured baton. The injured party was threatened and hit him in the chest with the baton by the suspect who demanded all the money in the house. The injured party gave him what was in his pocket.

All the other suspects upstairs then came running down the stairs and left through the front door. The first suspect left the sitting room at this point and also left through the front door.

During the course of the burglary, an amount of cash was taken from an upstairs bedroom. An imitation firearm was also recovered at the scene by the Gardaí.

Description of Suspects

All suspects are reported to have worn dark clothing with their faces covered with only their eyes visible.
They were tall and had a fit build.
The suspect that remained in the sitting room spoke with a local Kildare accent and wore black “desert” type boots.

Appeal

Gardaí are appealing to anyone:

 Who may have been in the vicinity of Pairc Mhuire between the hours of approximately 17:00 and 18:00 on 31/12/2020 and noticed any unusual or suspicious behaviour by any persons or vehicles.

 Who has a dash cam on their vehicle who may have been in the area to check same or make them available to the Gardaí?

 Were there any suspicious callers to houses in the area that day or in the days or weeks prior to the incident?

 Who may have CCTV footage which cover the roads nearby Pairc Mhuire estate and have not yet been in contact with Gardaí?

 Who may have any information in relation to the incident?

Gardaí in Newbridge investigating - 045-440180

Gardaí in Dundrum are investigating an Aggravated Burglary at The Heights, Woodpark, Ballinteer, Dublin 16 between 5.30pm and 6pm on Sunday 3 October 2021.

A blue Peugeot 307 (reg: 05-SO-2120) was seen driving in the area and parking at an apartment block across the road from the victim’s home. 

CCTV from the apartment block shows the car parking up and a male suspect getting out. He then walks towards the victim’s home while a female remains in the Peugeot.

The suspect is thought to have entered the residence at 5.30pm approx. The suspect spent around twenty minutes searching the house while the victim was watching television in his front room, unaware of what was going on in the rest of the house. 

Eventually the suspect entered the front room where he attempted to take the victim’s wallet from his pocket. The man struggled with the suspect who took a poker from beside the fire place and began to hit him with it, striking his arms. The victim tried to raise the alarm by calling out to his neighbour. The suspect soon left the premises. 

Subsequently it was noticed that some valuables, including some nursing medals, and cash had been taken. The suspect returned to the blue Peugeot and its female occupant who had parked across the road. The two then drove away from the scene via Balinteer Rd. The Peugeot car is known to have driven northbound on the M50 later the same day.

The victim has since upgraded his home security and installed new locks, CCTV, alarms and sensor lights.

Description of Male:

• 5’7’’
• In his 40’s
• Extremely thin/ gaunt
• Baseball cap, Covid mask and blue shirt
• Dark trousers and dark black and white runners

 Description ofFemale:

• Dark hair in a bun with red, purple dyed roots,
• App 5’7”
• Stocky build
• Black jumper with white Pineapple logo
• ¾ length yoga leggings

Garda Appeal: 

• Can you help in identifying the male and female involved in this incident?
• Gardaí are eager to locate the blue Peugeot 307 registration number: 05 SO 210. Do you know where the car is now or have you seen it? Have you been offered it for sale since?
• Have you been offered the nursing medals for sale? They are very old items and very rare so may stand out in people’s minds. 

Gardaí at Dundrum Garda Station investigating tel: (01) 666 5600

Gardaí in Dunshaughlin Garda Station are investigating an aggravated burglary that occurred at a house on the Main Dunshaughlin Road on the outskirts of the village on the night of 17 February 2021. 

On the night in question at approximately 19:45 an elderly couple were in their sitting room watching television when they both heard a loud bang outside their back door. Their home is a large detached two storey house on the outskirts of Dunshaughlin village. 

On hearing the loud noise the couple went to investigate and noticed that their ladder, which had originally been in the garden shed, was lying on the ground. While investigating how this came to be, they were rushed by four males who pushed them back into the house and shouted at them aggressively. All four males appeared to be armed with nail bars. The smallest of the males was carrying two bottles of bleach and a bottle of disinfectant spray. 

One of the males detained the injured parties and was abusive and threatening throughout the incident and was armed with a nail bar. He searched the pockets of one of the injured parties. The other 3 males searched the house and on returning from upstairs, they searched the other injured party’s handbag and stole a quantity of cash from within. Both injured parties were then ordered upstairs, one of them being struck on the back with a nail bar for moving too slow. The injured party’s engagement ring was forced from her finger with what is believed to be a knife.

One of the suspects then drew the curtains and smashed the locks and handles on the windows. He also pushed the bed in front of the window to block access to same. Blue bleach was poured on various items in the bedroom and on various items throughout the house. The injured party’s then watched from their bedroom window as the culprits made their escape towards Dunshaughlin Village in a car which had been parked in their driveway which is described as a small black 5 door vehicle (CCTV has since been canvassed in the area and has captured a dark coloured VW Golf in the area during the time of the incident).

The injured party’s called out the window to passers-by who freed them and alerted the Gardai. CCTV footage suggests that the Donnelly’s ordeal lasted approximately 18 minutes.

One of the injured party’s suffered bruises on his lower back and left arm.

The second injured party suffered bruises on her shoulders and a cut to her engagement ring finger. 

Description of Suspects

Suspect 1 – Male, Thin build, 6ft or taller, wearing all black tight clothing including a balaclava (only eyes were visible) and black runners, Irish accent, blue disposable gloves and was wielding a nail bar.

Suspect 2 – Male, Thin build, tall, wearing all black tight clothing including a balaclava (only eyes were visible) and black runners, blue disposable gloves and was wielding a nail bar.

Suspect 3 – Male, Thin build, tall, wearing all black tight clothing including a balaclava (only eyes were visible) and black runners, blue disposable gloves and was wielding a nail bar.

Suspect 4 – Male, Thin build, smaller than the other 3 raiders, wearing all black tight clothing including a balaclava (only eyes were visible) and black runners, blue disposable gloves and was wielding a nail bar, 2 bottles of bleach and a bottle of disinfectant spray.

The above suspect’s attire is described as being identical to each other and akin to a uniform.

Suspect 5 – Driver of vehicle – Male, thin build, blonde hair, approximately 20 – 29 years old. 

Property Stolen

1. Sapphire engagement ring (Princess Diana replica)
2. Gucci watch with interchangeable faces
3. 9ct gold keeper ring
4. 9ct heavy curb link bracelet (No picture available)
5. €300- €500 in cash.

Appeal 

• Anyone who was present at Main St, Dunshaughlin on 17/2/2021 between 7:30pm and 8:15pm that noticed anything suspicious particularly at the Dublin side of the village and whom Gardaí have not spoken to
• Anyone who noticed the dark coloured VW Golf shown in the CCTV between 7:30pm and 8:15pm that entered Dunshaughlin village from the Navan direction and left in the same direction
• Anyone who may have CCTV /dashcam footage and has not yet spoken to An Garda Síochana
• Anyone who may have been offered the jewellery for sale etc.   The engagement ring in particular is a very distinctive piece modelled on the Princess Diana engagement ring to contact An Garda Síochana.
• Anyone with any information that may assist An Garda Síochana in the investigation of this serious crime to contact An Garda Síochana at Ashbourne or confidential line 

Gardaí at Ashbourne Garda Station investigating Tel: 01-8010600

Gardaí at Gorey Garda Station are investigating an Aggravated Burglary that occurred at Camolin, on Sunday 21 February 2021 at 8.30pm approx. 

The victim and her two young daughters were in their living room, when they heard noises from outside the house, which the mother believed to be caused by the wind. She was unaware that three unknown males were entering the house via a window at the back of the house. A short time later two of the suspects entered the living room while the third stood at the door. One of the suspects that entered the living room was armed with a knife and the other with a crowbar. 

The suspect with the knife demanded money and jewellery which the victim handed over. The suspects’ demands continued and threats were made to kill the mother. While all of this was going on her two children were screaming and crying. The suspects panicked and quickly left the premises in a silver or light green metallic Ford Mondeo partial registration number 08 –D. 

Description of Suspects

Suspect 1 – Armed with a knife, approx. 19-21 years old.  5’9’’ in height approx, with short brown hair, thin build, long face and wearing a green hoodie.

Suspect 2 – Armed with a crowbar.5’9’’ in height approx, wearing a dark grey hoodie and a black/green scarf.

Suspect 3 – Male in his late teens / early 20’s. Slim build and 5’9’’ approx. in height.

Appeal:

• - Were you in the Limerick Road area of Camolin and surrounding areas on the 21/2/21 (during level 5 lockdown) and did you notice anything unusual/suspicious in or around 8.30 pm.
• - Do you believe that you may recognise the suspects from the descriptions given coupled with the evofit image?
• - Do you know the movements of the suspect vehicle, a Ford Mondeo silver / green 08 D partial registration, leading up to the incident or indeed its current whereabouts?
• - Can you nominate who you believe may have been involved by considering the suspects descriptions together with that of the Ford Mondeo? 

                              Gorey Garda Station, Investigating, Tel: (053) - 943 0690

Gardaí at Clonmel Garda Station are investigating an aggravated burglary that occurred on Thursday, 9 September 2020 at Ballyvadlea, Mullinahone, Co. Tipperary at approximately 11.30pm. 

Circumstances 

The victim was in his mobile home when he heard a noise outside. When he went outside, he observed two males wearing balaclavas, one of whom was carrying a baseball bat, and in the process of leaving a shed where his dogs were kept. 

The victim was then struck on the left arm before both males fled through the field to the back of the property where Gardaí believe their vehicle was parked. Gardaí believe that the suspect vehicle left in the direction of Drangan, and that it may have turned off a side road before reaching the village. The victim then went to his shed and subsequently discovered that the lock had been broken and his black Patterdale hunting dog had been taken. 

The victim received lacerations, swelling and bruising to his arms. He was conveyed by ambulance to Kilkenny hospital where he received treatment for his injuries. 

Description of dog: 

• Three year old female Patterdale terrier named Heather
• Black curly coat and black paws 

Description of Suspect 1:  

• 18-20 year old male
• Around 5’8’’ tall with a slim build
• Black Clothing and black balaclava that appeared to be knitted in different colours 
• American style baseball bat with different colours 

Description of Suspect 2: 

• Male in his mid-20s to 30
• Black Clothing and black balaclava
• Carried a torch which he shone in the victims face 

Appeal:

• Where you in the vicinity of Ballyvadlea, Mullinahone, on the evening of September 9th 2020?
• Do you remember seeing a suspicious person(s) or vehicle(s) in the area?
• Were there any callers to your home earlier that day or late that night?
• Did you see any vehicle entering or leaving a field in the area at approximately 11.30pm?
• Did you see any person(s) with a Patterdale dog on the night in question?
• Do you know anyone who had possession of a similar dog since the aggravated burglary occurred?
• Were you offered a similar dog for sale or do you know someone who has?
• Do you know the whereabouts of the stolen dog or do you have any information that may assist the investigation? 

Clonmel Garda Station Investigating Tel: (052) 617 7640

Gardaí at Ronanstown Garda Station are re-appealing for information in relation to missing person Esra Uyrun who has been missing from her home at Collinstown Grove, Clondalkin since the 23 February 2011. This year is the 10th Anniversary of her disappearance. 

Esra left her home at approximately 7.15am in a silver Renault Twingo registration number 08D23067. This vehicle was located in a car park at the bottom of Bray Head. Esra was married and had a two-year-old son at the time of her disappearance. She was 38 years old and today would have been her 49th birthday.

CCTV captured the Renault Twingo turning right from Convent Avenue onto Strand Road in Bray at approximately 8.40am on the 23 February 2011. A Skoda car had to swerve to avoid a collision. The Renault then moved into the left hand side of the road and pulled in to allow the Skoda to overtake it. They both continued down Strand Road in the direction of Bray Head. Later that morning the silver Renault Twingo car was captured on CCTV parked at the car park at the bottom of Bray Head. There has been no activity on her bank accounts or her Facebook page since the 23rd February 2011.

Esra is described as being 5'3" in height, of normal build with dark green/hazel eyes and sandy blonde highlighted hair. She has a sallow complexion. On the day Esra went missing she was wearing black leggings, a dark top, light brown boots and a green or denim jacket.

Appeal

Despite a number of reported sightings, Esra still remains a missing person and the investigation remains open. Gardaí are appealing for anyone with any information whatsoever to come forward to the Gardaí at Ronanstown or Bray Garda Stations.

Gardaí at Ronanstown Garda Station are investigating tel:  (01) 666 7700

Gardaí at Tallaght are investigating an attempted murder at Cookstown Cottages, Cookstown Lane, Tallaght, Dublin 24 on Friday 3rd December 2021 (shortly before 12.15pm). The scene is located to the side of a business premises named Tommy Mc Motors. The victim was a man in his 50’s who was shot to the upper body during the incident. He remains in hospital in a critical condition. 

Circumstances:

A short while before the attempted murder at 12md (approximately) an Opel Astra arrived at Kiltipper Gate, Tallaght. Two male suspects alighted the Opel Astra and transferred into a Citroen Berlingo. The Astra remained at this location for two days before it was set alight. 

Shortly before 12.15pm on Friday 03/12/2021 a black Citroen Berlingo Van, 11 DL 1641, entered the yard of the premises at Cookstown lane, and drove directly to the garage located at the rear of the yard. There are believed to have been two suspects in this van, one of which approached the victim and shot him. The van and the occupants then left the scene at speed, and travelled the short distance to Kilcarrig Close, Tallaght, where it was set alight. 

It is believed that one of the suspects (the driver) caught fire as the van was set alight and may have suffered injuries. The Citroen Van was completely destroyed in the fire. The scene was preserved for technical examination. 

At Kilcarrig the occupants are believed to have transferred to a black VW Golf GTI, partial registration 07 D …., which was then driven to Rathmill Glen, Rathcoole, Co Dublin where the Golf in turn was set alight. 

The driver caught fire as the VW Golf was set on fire, and may have suffered burn injuries. The VW Golf was not completely destroyed by the fire and the scene was preserved for technical examination. 

The two suspects then transferred into a silver Nissan Note, 07 D registration…., at Rathmill Glen Rathcoole, Co Dublin and left the scene at speed. Shortly after the Nissan Note was located abandoned in La Fanu Drive, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10. It was not set alight. The vehicle and scene were preserved for technical examination. 

An Incident Room has been set up with Detective Inspector John Walsh, as the appointed Senior Investigating Officer. Several lines of enquiry are being actively followed by the investigation team, to include the origin of the vehicles, and CCTV from all scenes identified as of interest. 

Garda Appeal:

• Where you near Kiltipper Gate, Tallaght on Friday 3/12/2021, (prior to the attempted murder), and did you see the Opel Astra being abandoned and set alight? Did you see the Citroen Berlingo?
• Were you in the vicinity of Cookstown Cottages, Cookstown Lane on Friday 3/12/2021 between 11 am and 12 .15pm or in the preceding weeks?
• Investigating Gardaí suspect that there are four vehicles involved in this attempted murder. Do you know who purchased these vehicles, who may have had access to them or where they were parked prior to Friday 3/12/2021?
• An Opel Astra 06 D 9073 was used to drive to the various locations during the purchase of the other vehicles used. Do you know who had possession of this car?
• Did you see either of these vehicles at the transfer locations? Did you see any of the suspects leave these locations on foot?
• Are you in a position to assist with the investigation? If so please do not hesitate to make contact and let the investigation team assess the information provided.
• Do you know of anyone who has suffered burn injuries since 3/12/2021? 

Gardaí at Roscrea Garda Station are investigating a burglary at a private residence that occurred near Roscrea, Co. Tipperary on the afternoon of Friday, 14 May 2021. 

On the date in question the victim was leaving his house at approximately 11.30am to collect his pension at a nearby post office. Whenever he left his house he was confronted by an unknown male who introduced himself as a Garda and said that he was there to inspect the man’s firearm. A second male was standing nearby but did not interact with the victim at this time. 

The victim took the man into his house and showed him where he kept his firearm. While inside the house the suspect located a sum of cash and signalled for the other suspect to come into the house. The suspects took the money and told the man that they would count it in their car before returning it to him. They then left the premises but did not return. It is believed that they left the scene in a dark coloured Ford Mondeo. When the victim discovered that the men had left with the money he alerted the Gardaí. 

The Ford Mondeo (06 registration) was purchased on the 13th of May 2021 in Clondalkin, Dublin 22. 

Description of Suspects: 

Suspect 1: Approximately 50 years of age, 6' and wearing a peaked cap.

Suspect 2: Late 30’s, 5'2”- 3”, with short fair hair and a very thin build.    

Garda Appeal

• Anyone who may have been in the Clashagad area of Roscrea on the morning / afternoon in question to please come forward with whatever information they may have.
• Anyone who may have passed between Roscrea and Dunkerrin on the old N7 now the R445 between 11am and 12pm on Friday the 14th of May 2021 and who may have seen the black Mondeo at or near the injured party’s house.
• Anyone who may have seen the vehicle heading towards Monegal on the R445 (formerly the N7) after 11.30am and entering the motorway network at Junction 23, north bound. The next sighting of the car was again on the R445 travelling northbound through Borris-in-ossary.
• Anyone who may have had a similar type call from two individuals in a similar Ford Mondeo either around that time in May or since to please get in touch. 

Gardaí at Nenagh Garda Station are investigating tel: (067) 50450

Gardaí at Bishopstown Garda Station are investigating a burglary that occurred at a service station in Bishopstown on Sunday 1 March 2021 between 3.30 – 3.50am.

On the night in question two males were seen in a yard adjoining the premises. One of the suspects is seen climbing over a fence that boarders the yard and walking around the service station. He then returns to the yard and around fifty minutes later at approx. 3.37am the climbs back over the fence at the rear of the service station. He climbs up onto the roof of the service station and gains entry to the premises by forcing open an upstairs window. He is then caught on internal CCTV walking down corridors and entering private areas.

At approx 3.46am a female staff member who was working the night shift made her way upstairs and discovered the suspect. On discovering the suspect she immediately turned around and ran outside to her car. Once in her car she called Gardaí and drove a short distance away to wait for their arrival.

Meanwhile the suspect is still upstairs in the service station. He enters an office where he is seen forcing open drawers that contained cash boxes and trays of money. He fills his pockets and then leaves the premises through a downstairs exit. He returns to the second suspect who was waiting in the yard the whole time and the two men disappear into the yard.

At 3.54am Gardaí arrive along with the member of staff who previously left the scene. 

Suspect 1 description:

• - Tall with a strong, slim build
• - Black tracksuit bottom, jacket and runners
• - Black ski mask pulled over face
• - Holding a blue crow bar

Appeal  

• Gardaí are looking to speak to anyone who was in the Bandon Road/Wilton area between 2am and 4am on the 1st March 2021 and saw anything or anyone suspicious to contact Togher Garda Station on 021-4947120
• Gardaí are looking to speak to anyone with Dashcam footage from the night in question that may have been in the area between 2am and 4am to contact them.
• Anyone who may have used the night hatch at O’Brien’s Amber on the night in question for purchasing fuel/items and saw anything unusual are being asked to contact Gardaí
• Any business that sold a blue crow bar similar to one used by the intruder in the week leading up to the burglary is asked to contact Gardaí
• Anyone who may recognise to intruder who ransacked the office in O’Brien’s Amber or know anything about the incident 

Gardaí at Bishopstown Garda Station are investigating tel: (021) 462 4500

Gardaí at Gort, Co Galway are looking for information on a burglary of a service station that took place in Kinvara on Friday 8th of January.

On the date in question shortly before 4am the owner of the service station received a phone call from his monitored alarm system alerting him that a security alarm at his business had been activated.

He drove to the premises and noticed that a car was parked in the forecourt. A few minutes later he saw the suspect coming out and loading up a car.

CCTV of the incident shows the suspect gaining entry and searching the premises. He is then seen using a sledge hammer to do damage to the alarm system.

While he was loading his car with items the owner was driving his van around the perimeter of the service station. The suspect left the scene in a Red Mazda 6 Saloon (reg 07-G-1770) through the village of Ballinderreen towards Clarinbridge.

The owner followed the suspect and was on the phone to Gardaí who were making their way to the scene. The suspect was followed to a private property, known as the “Ranch “consisting of apartments and some commercial properties that was bordered by farmland. It was here that the vehicle was found abandoned. 

Description of Suspect

• - Slim build and approx. 5’11’’ in height
• - Black tracksuit bottoms
• - Grey hoodie with fur lined hood
• - Black runners with white soles
• - Beanie hat, black gloves and black snood pulled over his face 

Appeal

• Gardaí would like to appeal to any witnesses in the area who may have been up and about in the early hours that morning to come forward with any information they might have.
• Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have seen the red Mazda (reg: 07G1770) in the days leading up to the burglary, especially in the Kinvara area.
• Gardaí are interested to know if anyone saw a male being picked up or thumbing for a lift in the area on the 08.01.21 at approximately 4am on the Gort side of Kilcolgan on the R348.

Gort Garda Station investigating Tel: 091 842870

Gardaí in Drogheda Garda Station are investigating a cash in transit robbery that occurred at Ballsgrove Estate on 2 December 2020.

On the morning in question at approximately 9am two men were seen cycling around Ballsgrove Estate. The two men left their bikes in a laneway and split up, walking in different directions. Suspect 1 was seen walking to the pharmacy and then hunkering down tying his shoe lace. Suspect two stood outside the Health Centre, smoking.

At approximately 9.30am a Cash in Transit vehicle stopped outside a local shop to make a cash delivery. During the course of the delivery, the two suspects tried to grab the cashbox from the delivery driver but were disturbed by passers-by. The two suspects ran down the road towards the laneway, got onto their bikes and cycled back into Ballsgrove Estate passing the Holy Family Boxing Club.

Description of Suspects

Suspect 1

Male on a red and black mountain bike carrying a sports bag. He wore:

• Dark runners with white sole
• Wine/purple Tracksuit bottoms
• Plain black hoody with full length zip down the front with white strings from the hood (no logo)
• Carrying a black and grey sports gym bag (no logo)
• Possibly a black “overhead snood” under the hoody as opposed to a mask or scarf

Suspect 2

Male initially had a bike and was wearing:

• Grey runners
• Black Northface hoody with logo on the center chest area
• Navy Nike tracksuit bottoms.
• Possibly a black “overhead snood” under the hoody as opposed to a mask or scarf

Appeal

• Did you see the two suspects arriving to the Ballsgrove shops on bicycles, one of whom carried a sports bag?
• Prior to the robbery, the first suspect was seen loitering outside the Health Centre before crossing the road and sitting on a wall. The second suspect was observed around the front of Ballsgrove Shops. This second suspect has a distinctive walk when he paced the above area. Did you notice either suspect?
• Did you see the suspects running from the scene to the rear alleyway behind Ballsgrove Shops?
• The two suspects left the alleyway near the Holy Family Boxing Club on bicycles. Did you see where they went from here?
• Any persons with information or knowledge of this robbery can come forward and will be treated in sensitive manner.
It was a bright and sunny Wednesday morning and there were plenty of locals walking around and going about their daily business. Perhaps they saw these two individuals and have information they could provide to An Garda Síochána.

Gardaí at Drogheda investigating - 041 9874200

Gardaí in Crumlin are investigating a cash-in-transit robbery that took place at a post office on St. Agnes Road on the 11 February 2021.

On the date in question at approximately 11.45am a security guard was making a cash delivery to the post office. He was in the process of delivering the second cash box when a man dressed in a green An Post jacket followed the guard into the post office and a gun was produced. The gun was pointed at the security guard and a demand was made that he “Drop the box”. The cash box and the security guard’s phone was then taken before the suspect ran out of the post office. He ran to a bicycle which he had earlier locked to a fence located to protect a tree. The suspect made his escape via Windmill Rd in the direction of Kildare Road, Crumlin with the cash box balanced on the handle bars of the bike.

Gardaí also believe that another man who was in the area at the time was also involved in the robbery by acting as lookout. This man was wearing a grey tracksuit, was also on a bike and left in the same direction as the main suspect following the robbery. 

Description of suspect 1

• - 5’10” or 5’11”
• - Stocky build
• - Well covered up
• - Wearing an authentic green An Post jacket 

Appeal

• - Gardaí would like to appeal to any witnesses to this crime to please come forward with any information that they might have. Anyone who was in the Crumlin village area between 10am-12.30pm on Thursday the 11 February may be a possible witness.
• - They are especially interested in anyone with dashcam footage of suspect on their bike either before or after the incident.
• - If you remember seeing someone in a green An Post jacket on a bike with a cash box balanced on the handle bars please do get in touch.
• - Also anyone who may have come across bank notes with green dye on them should please come forward.
• - Gardaí would like to remind retailers to be alert to the possible circulation of these green stained notes and to notify Gardaí if they come across any notes like these.

Crumlin Garda Station investigating Tel: (01) 666 6200

On this month’s Crimecall Chief Superintendent Declan Daly from the Garda National Protective Services Bureau discusses the increase in Domestic Abuse since the Covid-19 Pandemic commenced.

Chief Superintendent Daly will also discuss the following:

• Operation Faoiseamh which is a proactive protective measure which was launched with the aim of providing information, support and protection to victims by:

1. Communicating and Reassuring victims of abuse that An Garda Siochana was committed to addressing the issue of domestic abuse and that we would be taking a proactive approach to ‘Keeping People Safe’ during the lockdown period.

2. Increasing call backs to victims of domestic abuse which takes place within seven days of a domestic abuse incident.

3. Providing a second layer of proactive call backs to all victims of domestic abuse who had engaged with An Garda Siochana since the start of 2020. The purpose of this extra layer was to provide information, support and to identify risks to individual victims. The project aimed to use both Gardaí and Garda staff to ensure the best use of available resources during a time of increased demand. This measure also gave victims the opportunity to reach out and seek help.

4. Ensuring the protection of victims through the investigation and detection of all Domestic Violence Act Court orders. COVID-19 presented unprecedented risks to victims of domestic abuse.

• Coercive control, which is a persistent pattern of controlling and coercive behaviour, and has a serious impact on the health and welfare of the victim. Unfortunately the story provided in the introduction by the victim is a situation that is becoming more and more common.

- The typical perception of domestic crime is about violent actions, but it’s much more, domestic abuse is of course violence but it is also emotional, physical, financial, sexual or threatening behaviour.

- It is a cause of serious distress for those who suffer and which has an adverse effect on the victims day to day life.

- The offence applies to a spouse or a civil or intimate partner, irrespective of gender (Intimate partner does not have to mean being in a sexual relationship), and applies to current and previous partners

- Examples of behaviour:
o Monitoring
o Micromanaging victims actions or interactions
o Dictating who a victim can call, make contact with or socialise with
o Emotional and physical abuse
o Staking and harassment via social media, through technology or through surveillance
o Sexual abuse
o The offenders take over huge aspects of a victim’s life

- We appeal to any person who is a victim of domestic abuse and/or coercive control to make contact with An Garda Síochána and if they require urgent assistance or support, to please contact 112 or 999.

- We wish emphasis that, if someone engaging in the types of behaviours associated with coercive control are committing a crime and they will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The recent prison sentence imposed for coercive control should be a flag raised for them to check their behaviour.

• Coercive Control came into law on the 01.01.2019 upon the enactment of Section 39 of the Domestic Violence Act 2018.

Statistics

1. 16% increase in domestic abuse incidents in 2020 from 2019.

2. Operation Faoiseamh 23,785 contacts and attempted contacts were made with victims of domestic abuse.

3. 24% increase charging of offenders for domestic abuse related crime in 2020. In 2020, 7645 charges for crimes involving an element of domestic abuse were preferred.

4. 17% increase in breaches of Domestic Abuse Court Orders, with 4323 orders notified to An Garda Síochán in 2020.

5. Criminal Charges preferred for breaches of DVA Order up 25% in 2020 to 4,036.

So what this tells us is that there has been an overall increase in Domestic Abuse calls for service in 2020 and An Garda Síochán have responded to that with an increase in prosecutions for coercive control, domestic violence and breaches of court orders.

The Commissioner addressed a number of topics including the policing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic during 2021. Among the topics discussed was the culture within An Garda Síochána which for the most part he commented is extremely positive. However he did comment that negative behavior by Gardaí is unacceptable and erodes public trust. He stated that the introduction of the Anti-Corruption Unit is a permanent fixture in the organisation and is tasked at investigating such matters

The victims of Domestic Abuse and the issue of 999 calls was acknowledged as a very serious matter in terms of eroding public confidence. The Commissioner did offer reassurance to victims by making reference to the support services available, including specially trained officers in each division and the introduction next year of a new Command and Control system to deal with calls from the public.

The excellent work of An Garda Síochána was highlighted in terms of preventing and detecting crime. The Commissioner spoke specifically about the success in investigating trafficked sex workers, recent convictions in relation to businessman Kevin Lunney and recent progress in the HSE Cyber security investigation that culminated in data being located in the USA. The Commissioner emphasised the importance of the global multi-law enforcement agency approach and how it had been proactive and not just reactive against the Conti crime group, believed to be involved in the Cyber security incident.

The Commissioner acknowledged that the Garda recruitment campaign is due to commence in early 2022 and encouraged applicants from a wide range of diverse backgrounds. He acknowledged the dedication and flexibility of members of An Garda Síochána who have continued to work with their communities in order to keep people safe. Finally he thanked the public for their continued support and wished everyone a peaceful Christmas and Happy New Year.

On this month’s Crime Prevention segment Sergeant Graham Kavanagh was in studio to provide the public with personal safety advice for the coming summer months. 

Graham highlighted the importance of being Streetwise when it came to spending time outside this summer. He reminded the public that with the country opening up there may be increased opportunity for thefts, assaults and public order offences to take place. He explained that with outdoor dining there would be increased potential for phone and handbag theft to occur and outlined the steps you can take in order to ensure your safety in this regard. 

Sergeant Kavanagh spoke about Operation Soteria, the new anti-assault strategy being implemented by AGS. This operation involves conducting high visibility patrols, proactive policing of hot spot locations and engagement with retailers and publicans. 

Sergeant Kavanagh explained how AGS have been liaising closely with public transport companies over the last twelve months on anti-social prevention measures. 

Finally Sergeant Kavanagh outlined the ‘Use Your Brains Not Your Fist’ campaign being promoted by AGS in order to dissuade people from getting involved in physical altercations this summer.     

This month on Crimecall Sergeant Kavanagh was promoting the golden rules of online shopping.

In the lead up to Christmas and in particular the Black Friday sales promotion period An Garda Síochána are supporting Europol’s online fraud prevention campaign which encourages safe online shopping by customers and provides fraud prevention advice to online retailers / eCommerce businesses. 

https://www.europol.europa.eu/activities-services/public-awareness-and-prevention-guides/e-commerce-tips-and-advice-to-avoid-becoming-fraud-victim

More and more businesses are using the internet as the primary channel to sell goods and services. Whilst convenient for both the consumer and retailer it also presents opportunities for fraudsters who can use the anonymous nature of the internet to rip off consumers or target retailers who do not have the necessary defences in place to protect themselves.

There was a total of €22 million in credit and debit cards fraud losses on Irish consumers in 2020, according to the Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI).

Consumers and eCommerce merchants will be particularly active online over the next few weeks and An Garda Síochána and Europol advise consumers and online retailers to adhere to the following online shopping fraud prevention tips: 

For the online shopper:

The Golden Rules of Online Shopping

• Understand risks involved - do some research – use brands and shops that are familiar to you
• Check to ensure the website is genuine - type the address yourself and check the spelling
• Check the seller’s reviews and ratings
• Be careful how you pay – always use the websites recommended payment site – if none, use credit cards when purchasing as most cards have strong customer protection policy
• Save all documents related to online purchases
• If you don’t make a purchase, don’t leave identity or card details behind
• Never send card details by email, text or other messaging methods
• Don’t send money to someone you don’t know – check first 

For the Online Retailer / eCommerce Merchant: 

• Know your product –
  • Some products are riskier than others i.e. easily resalable small items may present a higher fraud risk
• Know your customer –
  • If you accept card payments for high value goods you would really want to know who you are selling to – wouldn’t you?   
• Establish a safe means of payment –
  • Your card processor can advise when choosing a safe means of payment
• Use a reliable delivery service –
  • Use a delivery service which you can be assured will offer professional handling of your merchandise

On this month’s Crime Prevention segment Sergeant Graham Kavanagh offered burglary prevention advice, with a focus on the potential impact that the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions may have. A year on from the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic Graham explained that many property crimes have reduced due to a lack of opportunity. Graham reminded viewers of the elements required to commit a crime and encouraged the public to be vigilant by implementing the following burglary prevention advice: 

The three elements required for a crime to occur:

• A suitable environment / location
• A motivated offender
• A lack of a capable guardian / Victim

Without any one of these elements a crime cannot occur. It is clear that because more of us are at home during the pandemic the environment to commit a crime was not suitable for burglars.

Conversely as the restrictions are lifted in the coming months we will be leaving our homes for longer periods. The opportunities for burglars will increase as they too can travel further distances. They will be looking for easy opportunities and properties that appear unoccupied and unsecure will be targeted. 

The burglary prevention advice as always is:

1. Secure all doors and windows
2. Light up your home and use timer switches when out
3. Store keys safely and away from windows & letterboxes
4. Record details of valuables and don’t keep large cash amounts at home
5. Use your alarm, even when at home
6. Be alert to online and telephone scams and do not share personal or financial data 

Homeowners are encouraged to check their homes for any security deficiencies using the checklist challenge audit.

Crime Prevention advice on securing your home is available here

On this month’s Crimecall Sergeant Graham Kavanagh highlighted crime prevention advice in relation to the opening of retail outlets after the relaxing of Covid-19 restrictions.  

Sergeant Kavanagh discussed the following checklist: 

• Perimeter Security

1. Check all entry points (doors, windows, fences, roof) to ensure they have not been tampered with or become damaged.
2. Check that all locks still work and are secured.
3. Make sure all lighting works.
4. Remove the means to commit crime – e.g. climbing aids such as ladders and wheelie bins. 

• Intruder Alarm

1. Test your security system.
2. When was it last serviced?
3. Is the alarm grade sufficient to meet your security needs?
4. Review the list of key holders and procedures.
5. Make sure PIR’s have not been obstructed by covid signage or screens.

•  CCTV

4. Check that all CCTV cameras work, are in focus and are not obstructed by Covid signage or screens (or foliage externally).
5. Check DVR security (including staff access) and check the time on the system - summertime
6. The fact customers will now be wearing masks, and possibly headwear, good quality CCTV is important 

• Staff

1. Have you employed new staff? Have they received any crime prevention awareness training?
2. Scams and Frauds – e.g. fake notes (look-tilt-feel) or change scams etc.
3. Opening & Closing procedures
4. Keys – are there ex-staff who still have keys to the premises?
5. Review cash handling procedures
6. Dealing with customers – e.g. refusing to wear covid masks or verifying age for purchase of alcohol. 

• Stock

1. Covid has hindered the ability to ‘meet and greet’ customers. Retailers may need to re-position high value stock or consider electronic tagging.
2. Temptation to fill shop floor to quickly sell old stock – this may block lines of sight and creating hiding places – keep it tidy.
3. Stock room security.

Sergeant Kavanagh noted other information in relation to businesses: 

• Although retail crime is down 26% since Covid-19 restrictions began, this still equates to approximately €2.5million worth of goods stolen.

The figures were €3.5million in 2019 and €9.5million in total since 2018 (GSAS). 

• When retail opens up again it is not unreasonable to expect large percentage increases in retail crime given the low base during Covid-19 restrictions. 

• The Central Bank Governor has predicted 1 in 4 SMEs will close following the pandemic. 98% of all registered businesses are SME’s,(companies with less than 250 employees) of these 90% are micro SME’s with 10 employees or less. These businesses may not have the finances to employ security experts, but the information An Garda Síochána provides and in particular the Crime Prevention Officer can at least mitigate this worry for these businesses.   

• The main advice for businesses is contained in the Government’s Work Safely Protocol – see https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/bb7fd-work-safely-protocol/. 

• The Health & Safety Authority has published a number of associated templates, checklists and posters – see https://www.hsa.ie/eng/topics/covid-19_coronavirus_information_and_resources/covid-19_business_supports/business_supports/work_safely_templates_checklists_and_posters/ 

• Fundamentally, all businesses should continue to protect themselves and others by following public health advice. The main theme of this phase of reopening is “Think Safe, Think Outdoors”.

On this month’s Crimecall Sergeant Graham Kavanagh was in studio to make the public aware of the recent increase in relation to theft of Catalytic Converters. The increase in these thefts is a reflection of the rise in price of palladium and rhodium metals. 

Sergeant Kavanagh gave a breakdown of the statistics covering the period January 2019 to December 2020. He highlighted the ongoing Garda operation targeting these crimes and spoke of the recent successes. The public were given advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of this crime and were told that An Garda Síochána are taking a multiagency approach to this type of crime.  

Catalytic Convertor Thefts

• €1.8 million euro worth
• 2800 Thefts
• 71% in Dublin
• Car parks: 40%
• Roadside:  20%
• Driveways: 15%

Ongoing Garda Operations / Meath Seizure:

Ongoing operations:  Targeting the people concerned in stealing catalytic convertors. We are appealing to the public to come forward with any information they have regarding the handling and processing of these items.

Meath Seizure: On the 11 February, Gardaí seized 110 catalytic converters together with €27,500 euro and £55,000 in sterling during a search operation at a premises in Co. Meath. Investigations are ongoing.

Crime Prevention Advice:

• Defensive parking near a wall can make jacking up a vehicle difficult, making this type of theft more difficult too.
• Encouraging owners to garage their vehicle whenever possible.
• Park in well-lit busy areas.
• Encourage installation of security lights to come on automatically when someone approaches a car parked in a drive.
• Look out for people working under cars and report suspicious activity to Gardaí.   

Avoid catalytic convertor theft’ 

Defensive Parking

Park in Garage

Park in Well-Lit Busy Area

Security Lights

Report Suspicious Activity

www.simi.ie for advice on catalytic converter fixes

An Garda Síochána Engagement and Enforcement with Metal Industry

We are engaging with the motor, recycling / scrap metal industries and are encouraging premises or businesses engaged in the handling of catalytic converters to ensure the provenance of same.

Regarding the disposal of these items we would like the public and the metal industry to know that:

• The waste metal industry is a national waste enforcement priority for 2021
• Unauthorised sites will be closed down.
• Focus on how high value waste streams such as batteries and catalytic converters are being handled and who is supplying these items to the authorised industry.
• Coordination with Local authorities / Revenue/ Dept of Social Protection and An Garda Síochána.

Campus Watch is similar to a residential Neighbourhood Watch scheme in that it is a crime prevention and community safety programme. It operates as a partnership between An Garda Síochána and the Campus occupants. It works on the basis that every member of Campus can help to improve the quality of life on site by keeping a look out for students, staff, and visitors, and reporting suspicious activities to the Gardaí. There are campus watch liaison Gardaí in every part of the country and their role is to provide you with any assistance you may need. 

During the academic year we run information campaigns designed to keep students safe and secure. This year will be challenging as we have two cohorts of students effectively attending campus for the first time. We would ask students and parents alike to check out the Campus Watch Page on the Garda website which will provide plenty of information to help make your year a safe and secure one. 

Personal Safety 

As a freshman, get to know the geography of your campus as soon as you can. Find out about public transport timetables, where you can park vehicles or bikes securely, campus security buildings, and the local Garda Station. 

College life should be about experiencing new things but remember when you are going out to PLAN and be Streetwise: 

• Plan your night out - how you are getting there and back,
• Let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back,
• Avoid walking alone in dark areas,
• Never attempt to reason with drunk or aggressive people and be
• Streetwise, get to know the locality and the surroundings, and mind your valuables. 

It’s a good idea to upload emergency contacts onto your phone and activate Find my Phone on your device. 

Our Substance Misuse campaign is entitled “Rise Above the Influence” 

Fresher’s Week should be a time for celebration, the beginning of something good in your life.  Don’t let drug use end your career before it starts.   

If you use drugs such as Cannabis, Cocaine, Ketamine and MDMA, you are committing a criminal offence and also risking addiction, loss of career opportunities, under-achievement, and international travel restrictions. Taking other substances like cannabis edibles:  jellies, sweets, drinks, vapes, or synthetic cannabinoids or nitrous oxide balloons also carries health and prosecution risks. 

Taking un-prescribed ‘study’ drugs or sleeping pills can lead to anxiety, addiction and psychosis. Multiple or Poly-drug use is extremely dangerous and increases your risk of overdose or death. 

While we strive to keep people safe, we also believe that you can also help keep yourself safe.

Contact the emergency services if you become ill after consuming a drug or are in the presence of somebody who may be ill. 

Our “Rise above the influence” message is simple. Your future is in your hands. Seek out positive influences on Campus. Choose the influences which will enhance your future career. Make responsible decisions for yourself and be aware of those around you. Don’t become another victim of the drug trade.  

Consent

During your college life you will be experiencing new friendships and relationships. Respect each other’s boundaries and diversity. 

If you’re engaging in sexual activities, remember to always ask for consent and to communicate.

See https://usi.ie/consent/ 

Accommodation Frauds 

Gardaí are advising people to be wary of rental scams, particularly at this time of year when students are returning to college. 

There were a total of 503 cases of rental scams reported to An Garda Síochána between 1 February 2019 and 31 May 2021. 

These incidents have been declining in the last 18 months with Covid19, restrictions the likely cause of the decline. Almost half of these incidents occurred in the Dublin Region.

Just over €900,000 was stolen in rental scams over this period.

42% of all injured parties were under the age of 25.

72% of all injured parties were under the age of 35. 

Red Flags

• When the landlord is unable to meet up to show you the property in person. Covid-19 restrictions no longer acceptable excuse.
• When communication is only through Text / WhatsApp or other social media platform.
• When the property is offered with no questions asked and payment demanded immediately before signing the lease.
• When you are asked to pay cash, cryptocurrency or money via a non-bank transfer. (such as wire transfer) 

Check List

• Never agree to rent a property without first having the opportunity to view it.
• Do not hand over cash. Insist upon a proper receipt.
• Ensure that the keys work and you have proper contact details for the landlord/agent.

This month’s Crimecall provided residential burglary prevention advice as we enter the winter season.

Considering burglary trends over the last 10 years or so, two events have had a major impact in shaping the environment. These are the commencement of Operation Thor on 2nd November 2015 and the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic (taken as 1st April 2020). Burglary incidents dropped by approximately 37% in the years following the commencement of Op Thor. Since 1st April 2020 there has been a further reduction of approximately 50%.  As we emerge from restrictions we need to guard against complacency when it comes to securing our homes. 

Traditionally burglary rates increase in winter months compared with summer months. In winter, approximately half of all burglary occurs between 3pm and 12am, with the period of most activity being between 5pm and 10pm Monday – Saturday. Post April 2020 however, a greater proportion of burglaries occurred in the early hours of the morning (12am – 6am). 

How does the Burglar get into your home? 

The main points of entry are the front door 35%, rear door 22% and rear window 19%.

Compared to previous years, a greater proportion of burglaries have occurred in premises that were unsecured. Since April 2020 over 1 in 4 burglars entered a residential premises through an unsecured door or window.

In winter, a greater proportion of burglaries occur by entry from the rear of the premises. This proportional increase has been more pronounced during the Covid-19 period. In winter, a greater proportion of burglaries occur by forcing a secured window/door. 

TOP 5 TIPS 

1. Secure all doors and windows.
2. Light up your home, use timer switches when out.
3. Use your alarm, even when at home.
4. Store keys safely and away from windows & letterboxes.
5. Record details of valuables and don’t keep large cash amounts at home. 

Lock Up. Light Up as part of An Garda Síochána’s Operation Thor.

On this month’s Crimecall Sergeant Graham Kavanagh highlighted the problem of sheep worrying incidents, with around 400 such worrying incidents occurring annually during lambing season, (January to late April). These incidents result in the death of some 3000 to 4000 sheep. These incidents cause financial loss to the farming community as well as distress to those involved.

Crimecall went on patrol to the Cooley Peninsula, Co. Louth, to spend the day with sheep farmer Ciaran Sheelan who has a sheep farm with 80 ewes which he rears with his father. He talked about the impact that sheep attacks have had on his farm and what the public can do to help prevent this from happening.

We also interviewed Local Dog Warden Padraig McKeown on recent attacks in the area and Sean Dennehy of the IFA who highlighted the issues farmers face every year when their livestock is attacked by dogs. He also highlighted the IFA’s new campaign 'No Dogs Allowed' which farmers are adapting in an effort to prevent these attacks from occurring.

Sergeant Kavanagh’s key message focused on dog owner’s legal obligation under the control of dogs act, to obtain a dog licence, to act responsibly, keep their dog under effective control, know its whereabouts at all times, and the need to have their dog microchipped.

Sergeant Kavanaghs final message was in relation to dog theft, which is a worry for many dog owners, but how by taking some steps this type of crime can be prevented.

He sought to reassure the public that although these incidents get a lot of media coverage when they occur there has not been a surge in the number of incidents and offered the following preventive advice. 

• Microchip and Register your dog
• Regularly check home and perimeter security
• Consider installing CCTV around your property
• Report suspicious vehicles/behaviour to Gardaí
• Join a Neighbourhood Watch / Community Alert Scheme
• Use Community Text Alert scheme to inform neighbours.

 More information is available here

On this month’s Crimecall Sergeant Graham Kavanagh Crime Prevention Officer discussed the decrease in the number of incidents of thefts from cars / vans in retail car parks due to the Covid-19 restrictions being in place and giving the criminals less opportunities to target cars.

Sergeant Kavanagh examined the statistics on when the incidents are occurring most frequently, how the criminals are gaining access to the vehicles and what is being taken.

Advice was given to viewers on safe parking including the following:

• Ensure your car is parked in a busy, well-lit secure area.
• Secure all doors, close all windows and ensure your car alarm is set
• Double check that all the doors of the vehicle are locked
• Ensure you take valuable property with you. Do not leave the property on view inside the car.
• Report all thefts from cars or suspicious activity to Gardaí and notify any car park attendants or security staff.

Sergeant Kavanagh also discussed Bank Jugging – this occurs when customers go into a bank, they are watched by persons who wait patiently for them to come out with a bank bag, coin box or bank envelope that looks like they may have a large amount of cash. They then follow the customer and break into their car or steal from the victim directly.

These types of crimes usually occur at the destination the victim stops at after leaving the bank, such as their home, shop or restaurant. When the customer attempts to leave their vehicle they become a victim and the cash is stolen.

Bank Juggers often park where they have clear visibility of the front door or the ATM. Bank Juggers will change parking spots if their visibility is obstructed.

Preventing Bank Jugging:

- Be aware of your surroundings, especially if something seems strange as you enter the bank.
- Conceal your bank deposit bags, coin boxes or envelopes as you enter and leave the bank.
- Take your bank bag or envelope with you into your next destination. Don’t hide it in your vehicle.
- Always vary your routes and times for cash drops and collections.
- Consider using electronic funds transfer rather than depositing or withdrawing cash.
- If you feel like you are being followed, call 999 and drive to a Garda station.

Always be aware of your surroundings and report anything suspicious to avoid getting “Jugged”.

On this month’s Crimecall Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Cleary was in studio to discuss the recent Cybercrime investigation involving the HSE and the Department of Health. 

He outlined what has happened and the seriousness of the ransomware attack.  He advised that there was a rise in all cybercrime worldwide and the lengths cyber criminals will go to, e.g. how adaptive they were in responding to the pandemic, and the subsequent tailored pandemic based cybercrimes. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Cleary discussed the primary types of cyber dependent crimes which are ransomware and computer hacking offences which directly target the computer or its data. While hacking offences have remained largely static, ransomware attacks have grown significantly. However these types of crimes are traditionally underreported. Among the most prevalent cyber enabled crimes, or ordinary crime committed over a computer, are phishing which has seen a significant rise while people are working from home and email compromise where a supplier business email asks for payment details to be changed. However the email is fraudulent and the payment is then quickly withdrawn before the fraud is noticed by the company receiving it. 

Advice 

The advice to people would be:

• - Don’t do online what you wouldn’t do offline. People have a false sense of security when they are behind the computer screen but they should be suspicious for that very reason. 
• - People are advised to only friend people they know or trust.
• - Not to click on links in unsolicited emails.
• - To be aware that Banks and organisations such as the Garda or HSE will never ask for financial details to confirm identity.
• - Update your software and systems from reputable suppliers only and do this regularly to stay safer.
• - Backup your files regularly to a separate storage device or a reputable online cloud account.
• - Report any suspicious or fraudulent activity to your local Garda station.
• - If you are concerned about the safety of your data you can contact the organisation involved, such as the HSE. If you believe or know your data has been used in a crime, or you have been the victim of a cybercrime, you should report it to your local Garda station. Private and corporate victims are advised to get in touch with their local station if they have been the victim of any cyber-attack. 

More information is available on the Garda Website at www.garda.ie/cybercrime.

Detective Chief Superintendent Seamus Boland was in studio to offer advice to the public in relation to Operation Tara which was launched by An Garda Síochána on 2 July 2021. Operation Tara is aimed at tackling the threat posed by drug dealing and drug related intimidation and violence. 

Operation Tara isfocused around four strands, namely:

• Crime Prevention and Protecting Communities;
• Crime Investigation and Operational Activity;
• Working in Partnership and
• Education & Awareness. 

The operation places disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting drug trafficking networks as a priority and to discourage young people from becoming involved in drug related criminality.

Operation Tara is taking place in partnership with the community, with local Gardaí interacting with them for the purpose of assisting in preventing the occurrence of drug related criminality; reassuring them of the availability of the Garda Síochána to provide assistance as required. 

The Garda National Community Engagement Bureau (GNCEB) is co-ordinating activity under the Garda Schools programme and Campus Watch programme, to increase awareness and education regarding these matters and to assist in crime prevention relevant to Operation Tara. The focus is to discourage young people from involvement in drug consumption or drug trafficking. 

DRUG RELATED INTIMIDATION

The Garda Síochána recognise the devastating impact of drug related intimidation on the wider family and communities.  Dedicated Drug Units have now been established in every Division across the country, and they are proactively targeting drug dealers. 

We also have the Drug Related Intimidation Programme where a Garda Inspector is assigned responsibility for tackling drug related intimidation (DRI) in every Division and is a point of contact for persons wishing to confidentially report drug related threats.  

We are not judgmental on this issue and we encourage people to come forward in confidence, as our priority and focus is on the drug trafficking and violent gangs. 

The Drug Related Intimidation Inspector will-

• Advise, guide and support persons or families subject to intimidation and assist the person or family on deciding on an appropriate course of action to take.
• Ensure matters are investigated thoroughly if that is what the victim’s wishes.
• Ensure that persons identified as engaging in drug related intimidation become the focus of targeted Garda operations, which generally results in them being arrested and prosecuted for other offences such as drug dealing, money laundering, assaults and often having assets confiscated as proceeds of crime. 

Finally, Detective Chief Superintendent Boland emphasised that An Garda Síochána can’t tackle the drug problem alone and while we already engage in partnership with other relevant agencies, such as government departments and community groups, our greatest partnership is with the public we serve.

Don’t assume that the Gardaí know who is drug dealing or engaging in drug related intimidation in your community because it’s very possible we don’t.

We all need to work in partnership and if we know who is engaging in drug dealing and associated threatening and violent behaviour, then those people will become our targets. 

Operation Tara is currently active in your area so please help us to make our communities safer for everybody. 

Gardaí at Kevin Street Garda Station are investigating an Aggravated Burglary that occurred at Ardee Street, Dublin 8, on the 19 February 2021 at around 6pm. 

During the incident several knocks were received to the door of the premises. On opening the door a firearm was produced and pointed at the female victim. A demand was made for cash and the victim was made lie on the floor. A sum of cash was taken and the suspect left in the direction of St. Lukes Avenue. Gardaí believe that the suspect arrive to the scene from the same direction. 

The suspect is described as being around 5’8’’ in height, with a thin build, pale blue eyes and discoloured / stained teeth.

He spoke with a Dublin accent and was wearing a grey beanie hat, baggy black jacket, blue jeans and black runners. 

Gardaí at Kevin Street Garda Station are investigating tel: (01) 666 9400

Gardaí at Kevin Street Garda Station are investigating an Aggravated Burglary that occurred at Ardee Street, Dublin 8, on the 19 February 2021 at around 6pm. 

During the incident several knocks were received to the door of the premises. On opening the door a firearm was produced and pointed at the female victim. A demand was made for cash and the victim was made lie on the floor. A sum of cash was taken and the suspect left in the direction of St. Lukes Avenue. Gardaí believe that the suspect arrive to the scene from the same direction. 

The suspect is described as being around 5’8’’ in height, with a thin build, pale blue eyes and discoloured / stained teeth.

He spoke with a Dublin accent and was wearing a grey beanie hat, baggy black jacket, blue jeans and black runners. 

Gardaí at Kevin Street Garda Station, tel: (01) 666 9400

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the above suspect in relation to an assault that occurred at Belvedere Road in Wexford Town on 23 May 2021 at approximately 10.15pm. 

The victim was walking home when she was followed by an unknown male. The victim was grabbed on the arm but managed to run away. 

Description of suspect:

• - Late 30’s
• - Bald with sallow skin and dark coloured eyes
• - Wearing a blue and black padded jacket and dark tracksuit bottoms 

Wexford Garda Station investigating tel: (053) 916 5200

Gardaí at Coolock Garda Station are investigating an attempted hijacking of a car on Saturday 15 May 2021 (7.30am) at Barry’s Court Road, Coolock, Dublin 17. The female victim was stopped by two males who she believed to be plain clothes Gardaí. One suspect was standing in the middle of the road while the second was standing beside a silver Hyundai i40 at what the victim believed to be a Garda check point.

During the incident one of the suspects directed the victim by means of hand signals to stop her car. As she rolled down her window an attempt was made to take the keys from the ignition by leaning in through the driver’s window. As the victim tried to flee the scene she received scratches to her cheek and neck.

Description of suspect 1:

Age; late 30’s to early 40’s

Bald/balding, with no facial hair

Approximately 5’8”

Wearing a grey coloured jumper, navy or dark trousers, dark coloured shoes or boots

What appeared to be a navy gilet or similar styled item of clothing which is described as appearing to be an official Garda stab vest.

No Garda signage or uniform was observed during this incident. 

Gardaí at Coolock Garda Station, tel: (01) 666 4200

Gardaí in Raheny are seeking information on the above individual in relation to an attempted robbery on the 3 December 2020 at 6.20pm.  The victim was standing at a bus stop on Kilbarrack Road, Dublin 5, near Kilbarrack Fire Station, when a demand was made to hand over his phone, to which he refused. During the robbery man became the victim of an assault. The suspect fled the scene on a mountain bike in the direction of Tonlegee Road.

Suspect Description:

• 28 – 30 Years Old
• 186cm in height approx.
• Pale skin with a brown short stubbly beard
• Wearing a black beanie hat and a red jacket with a white stripe across the chest 
• Black tracksuit bottoms 

Raheny Garda Station investigating Tel: (01) 6664300

Gardaí in Raheny are looking for information on the above individual in relation to an attempted robbery on the 3rd of December 2020 at 6.20pm.  The injured party was standing at a bus stop on Kilbarrack Road, Dublin 5, near Kilbarrack Fire Station, when he was approached by a male who demanded his phone. The injured party refused and was assaulted during the attempted robbery. The suspect fled the scene on a mountain bike in the direction of Tonlegee Road. 

Description of Suspect:

• 28 – 30 years old.
• Approx. 186cm,(6 1”), in height
• Pale skin with a brown short stubbly beard
• Wearing a black beanie hat and a red jacket with a white stripe across the chest 
• Black tracksuit bottoms 

Gardaí at Raheny Garda Station investigating. Tel: 01-6664300

Gardaí at Leixlip Garda Station are investigating a Burglary that occurred in Celbridge on the afternoon of 8 May 2021. 

The victim was in her bedroom when she heard noises coming from downstairs. The suspect came up the stairs and entered the victim’s bedroom. Upon discovering the victim the suspect turned around and ran outside to a Honda CRV jeep that was waiting for him. No items were taken during the incident. 

Description of suspect: male, tall, 20 years old approx., black curly hair and a long face. He wore dark blue clothing. 

Gardaí at Leixlip Garda Station are investigating tel: (01) 666 7800

 

Gardaí at Bridewell Garda Station Cork are looking for information in relation to a burglary at a private residence in the Bernadette’s Way area of the city on the 10 April 2019.

The man in the picture was one of three individuals involved in the burglary where a rear patio door was damaged, a window smashed and an interior alarm system ripped from the wall. A crowbar, screwdriver and black gloves were later recovered in a nearby bin.

Description

• A male in his early 20’s,
• Tall and with a broad build
• A round face
• Wearing a black jacket and black peak cap.

Gardaí at Anglesea Garda Station investigating. Tel: 021-4522000

Gardaí in Dundrum are seeking the public’s assistance in relation to a burglary that took place in Churchtown Avenue Dublin at 9.20pm on the evening of 28 September 2021. 

On the evening in question the above individual knocked on the window of the premises. When he did not receive an answer he forced his way in through the front door. At this point he was confronted by the owner of the property who asked him what he was doing. The suspect claimed that there was a parcel waiting for him inside. On hearing this the owner asked the man to leave. 

Description:

Approx. 40 years old, 5’ 4’’ in height, medium build and grey hair. He spoke with an Irish accent. He wore a black jacket and black tracksuit bottoms. 

 Dundrum Garda Station, Investigating, Tel: (01) - 6665600

Gardaí at Coolock are investigating a case of exposure at Churchwell Road Belmayne. Dublin 13, on the 6 November 2021 at 11.50pm approx.

The victim was walking along a pathway at the above location when she was approached by a male suspect as described in the above evo fit. The victim immediately left the scene and contacted Gardaí.

Description: Approximately 5’11” in height with greyish tight hair. He was wearing a navy jacket and light blue jeans. He is thought to be in his late 30’s / early 40’s.

Gardaí at Coolock Garda Station, investigating tel:(01) 666 4200  

Gardaí at Galway are investigating a suspected incident of exposure that occurred at Tirellan Heights, Headford Road, Galway on the 30 October 2021 at 8.30am.

The victim was walking near Tirellan National School when the suspect approached her from the opposite direction on foot. When he saw the victim walking towards him the suspect exposed himself.

Description: late 40’s or early 50’s, approximately 5ft in height, well built, eastern European accent. He was wearing grey washed jeans, blue puffa jacket and a blue beanie hat.

Gardaí at Galway Garda Station, investigating tel: (091) 538 000

Gardaí at Blanchardstown are investigating an incident of exposure that occurred on the 29 August 2021 at approximately 8.15pm, Coolmine Woods, Clonsilla, Dublin 15. 

The victim was walking through Coolmine Woods when she observed a male cycling towards her from the Snugborough Road direction. He continued cycling towards the victim, got off his bicycle and leaned it up against a tree. He then stood in some bushes engaged in an act of exposure. 

Description:

Late 30’s / early 40’s, approx 5’10” in height and having a broad face. He had grey hair and was wearing a dark rain coat, grey tracksuit bottoms and runners. 

                   Blanchardstown Garda Station, Investigating, Tel: (01) 666 7000

Gardaí at Finglas Garda Station are seeking the public’s assistance with the identity of the above individual in relation to a hijacking that occurred on Jamestown Road, Finglas on the 5 July 2021 at approximately 7am. 

During the incident the victim was threatened with a hatchet before having his car keys taken off him. The suspect then got in the victim’s car and drove away. The car was a Red Mercedes Benz E-series. 

Description of suspect; 5'7”, possibly early 30’s, slim build, white skin and short mousy-brown hair. He spoke with a Dublin accent. He wore a dark top with a hood and dark coloured back pack. He was carrying a black hatchet. 

Gardaí at Finglas Garda Station are investigating tel: (01) 666 7500

Gardaí in Finglas are investigating a hijacking incident that took place outside a business park on Jamestown Road on the 5 July 2021.

On the date in question the victim pulled up to the entrance of the business park and got out of his car to open the gate. While waiting for the gate to open he was approached by a male suspect holding a hatchet who got into the car and attempted to drive it away. The suspect could not initially start the car so he got out and chased the injured party asking him how to start the car.

Eventually the suspect got the car started and drove away. The car was abandoned and subsequently recovered not far from the scene of the hijacking. The above evofit was supplied for the suspect by the injured party.

Garda Appeal:

• - The hijacked car was a burgundy Mercedes 5 Series. It was abandoned at Creston Avenue a short distance away. Did you see the car in question on the morning of the hijacking?
• - Do you recognise the male suspect in the evofit? 

Finglas Garda Station, investigating tel: (01) 666 7500

Gardaí in Enfield Garda Station are investigating a robbery that took place at Enfield Leisure Park, Canal Road, Enfield at around 12 noon on 3rd November 2020.  

During the course of this incident, the injured party was taking pictures when she was pushed onto the ground from behind by two men.  She had her camera bag around her shoulder and the camera was around her neck.  The two men managed to get the camera bag but failed to get her camera. 

Description of Suspect 

In addition to the evofit, the first suspect is described as follows:

• - 30 years old
• - Black / dark brown hair
• - Slim build
• - Lighter coloured blue / green eyes
• - Very dark eyebrows which stood out making his eyes appear narrower looking
• - Clear skin with reddish cheeks.

There is no evofit for the second suspect but he is described as follows:

• - Red bomber jacket
• - Baggy bootcut blue jeans
• - Dark mustard hoodie and he wore the hood up 

Gardaí at Enfield Garda Station are investigating tel: (046) 954 1002

Gardaí at Blanchardstown Garda Station are looking for information on the above individual in relation to a robbery from the person that occurred at Parslickstown Drive, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15 on the 30th of January 2021 at 18.59hrs. 

The injured party observed this male getting into the driver’s seat of his vehicle. The injured party challenged the suspect at which point the suspect produced a hammer and threatened the injured party, demanding his wallet and phone.  The injured party fled the scene on foot and no property was taken. 

The suspect is described as: 

• - White male, 35 – 40 years old, approximately 6ft in height with a heavy set build.
• - He had a thick Dublin accent and wore a grey hoodie, dark t-shirt and black shorts. 

Gardaí Blanchardstown Garda Station investigating.  Tel: (01) 666 7000

Gardaí at Blanchardstown Garda Station are investigating a robbery from the person that took place in Tyrellstown on 20 July 2020.

The victim was walking home at around 11.30pm when during the course of a robbery, he was hit with either a steel rod or pipe and was threatened with a 6” knife, and was knocked to the ground.

The suspects are believed to have come from Tyrellstown Playground at Park Boulevard. During the struggle the victim managed to remove the mask of one the suspects. The two suspects then ran away along Park Boulevard towards Mount Eustace estate.

Description of suspect 1:

White with blue eyes Short light brown hair with a receding hairline Approx. 5’9’’ Wearing a black hoodie and black face mask Aged 30 -35 years Square face Eastern European accent

Description of suspect 2:           

White skin Approx. 6 feet tall  Aged late 20’s Black Hoodie and face mask Eastern European accent

 Blanchardstown Garda Station investigating Tel: (01) 666 7000 

Gardaí in Enfield Garda Station are investigating a robbery that took place at Enfield Leisure Park, Canal Road, Enfield at around 12 noon on 3rd November 2020.

During the course of this incident, the injured party was taking pictures when she was pushed onto the ground from behind by two men. She had her camera bag around her shoulder and the camera was around her neck. The two men managed to get the camera bag but failed to get her camera.

Description of Suspect

In addition to the evofit, the first suspect is described as follows:

- 30 years old
- Black / dark brown hair
- Slim build
- Lighter coloured blue / green eyes
- Very dark eyebrows which stood out making his eyes appear narrower looking
- Clear skin with reddish cheeks.

There is no evofit for the second suspect but he is described as follows:

- Red bomber jacket
- Baggy bootcut blue jeans
- Dark mustard hoodie and he wore the hood up

Gardaí at Enfield investigating - 046-9541002

Gardaí in Tullamore are looking for the public’s assistance in relation to the above individual suspected of involvement in a theft incident in Clara, Co. Offaly at approx. 4pm on 30 August 2021. 

The victim was walking along a footpath when the above male leaned out of the passenger seat window of a black Volvo and grabbed the victim’s handbag from around her arm before driving away. 

Description of suspect:

• - Male in his late 20’s
• - Black curly hair with a moustache and beard
• - Sallow skin
• - Dark eyes
• - Dark clothes 

Tullamore Garda Station, investigating tel: 0579327600

Gardaí at Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow are investigating a case of trespassing that occurred at a private residence at Kiladreenan at approximately 6pm on December 2nd 2020.

During the course of this crime a suspect entered the injured party’s premises without permission and was approached by a family member. At this point the suspect quickly left the scene in a Pajero-type jeep that was waiting nearby.

Description of Suspect:

In addition to the Evofit the suspect is described as 5ft 10 in height with brown hair, stocky build, wearing dark jeans, and dark v-neck jumper with a black polo shirt underneath.

Gardaí at Newtownmountkennedy investigating - 01-2819222

Gardaí at Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow are investigating a case of trespassing that occurred at a private residence at Kiladreenan at approximately 6pm on 2 December 2020.

During the course of this crime a suspect entered the injured party’s premises without permission and was approached by a family member.  At this point the suspect quickly left the scene in a Pajero-type jeep that was waiting nearby.

Description of Suspect:

In addition to the Evofit the suspect is described as 5' 10" in height with brown hair, stocky build, wearing dark jeans, and dark v-neck jumper with a black polo shirt underneath. 

Gardaí at Newtownmountkennedy Garda Station investigating. Tel: 01-2819222

The Gardaí at Monaghan Garda Station are investigating a fatal hit and run collision that occurred on the 26 June 2011.

In the early hours of Sunday the 26th of June 2011 Fintan Traynor, who was just twenty years old, was killed when a car struck him as he walked home to Lemgare Road, Co. Monaghan. This road links the village of Clontibret and Annyalla with Derrynoose and Keady, Co. Armagh. 

Fintan had attended a family reunion on Saturday the 25th of June with family members from Australia who returned for a four week holiday. Fintan and his cousin Ciaran travelled to Castleblayney where they met up with more friends and continued to socialise in the town. Just before 2am Fintan and his cousin Ciaran were walking along the main street in Castleblayney and stopped to talk to a cab driver who gave them a lift home to their uncle’s house in Annayalla where Ciaran was staying. They said goodnight and Fintan left to walk the 3 kilometres to his own home. This would have taken just thirty minutes. About one kilometre up the road, a neighbours CCTV camera shows a figure passing at 2.41am. 

Early on the Sunday morning, Fintan’s uncle who had travelled from Australia took an early morning walk with his wife down the quiet country road towards Lemgare Road. They came across the body of Fintan lying on the road. He had been struck by a car. 

Appeal: • Gardaí appealed to the owner/driver of the offending vehicle which is now known to be an Audi A4 to come forward.

• Gardaí appealed to the driver of the car which travelled from Tasson (Murphys Cross) towards Lemgare at 3.31a.m on 26 June 2011 to come forward.
• Gardaí appealed to garages and vehicle repair workshops/suppliers of car parts on both sides of the border to come forward and assist in the investigation.
• Gardaí appealed to any other persons who were socialising in the area at this time or who travelled through this area on the morning of the 26th June to come forward.
• The road where the collision occurred is not widely used by the public and Gardaí believe that there may be some people locally who might have valuable information and have not yet come forward. They may have noticed a car of this description which was damaged or some person whose behaviour may have may changed. The person involved may have confided to some close friend or family member about the accident. 

Gardaí at Monaghan Garda Station, tel: 04777200

At approximately 9pm on 13 June 2021 Gardaí were notified of a serious Road Traffic Collision at the Junction of Sheriff Street Upper and East Road/ New Wapping Street, Dublin 1 involving a vehicle and a pedal cyclist. The vehicle involved failed to remain at the scene. Gardaí and members of the Dublin Fire Brigade including Paramedics responded to the Road Traffic Collision. 

The male pedal cyclist was removed from the scene by Paramedics and was conveyed by ambulance to the Mater Hospital and then to Beaumount Hospital for the serious nature of his head injuries. 

In the immediate aftermath of the collision, on the night of Sunday 13 June 2021, a black Seat Cordoba, registration 03WH1159 was located on Guild Street, Dublin 1 with significant damage to the windscreen and roof. It has since been established this vehicle was abandoned at Guild Street, Dublin 1 following the collision. It is the belief of the investigation team that this vehicle was the vehicle directly involved in the collision. This car travelled straight down Sheriff Street Upper following the collision and turned left onto Guild Street at the junction with Spencer Dock and Seville Place, where it was parked up and was abandoned outside the Swan Centre. 

Appeal:

• Any witnesses to the collision at the junction of Sheriff Street Upper/ East Road/ New Wapping Street, Dublin 1
• Any witnesses to the Seat Cordoba 03WH1159 being parked up at Guild Street or any witness who may have observed any person(s) alighting from the vehicle.
• An appeal to any person who may have seen this vehicle on the night of Sunday 13 June 2021 preceding or following the collisio
• Investigation Gardaí would also appeal to the occupants of the Seat Cordoba at the time of the collision to come forward and contact them. 

Gardaí at Store Street Garda Station, tel:(01) 666 8002

Gardaí in Midleton, Co. Cork are investigating the discovery of remains that were discovered by workers at a construction site on the Midleton to Youghal Greenway, just off the Shanty Path at Roxborough, Midleton, Co. Cork on Tuesday 5 January 2021. 

On the date in question, building workers from Cork County Council were clearing an area just off the railway which had been used as an illegal dumping ground for a number of years.  This area was not accessible as a walkway and it was overgrown with shrubbery trees and weeds.  

The workers were in the process of clearing the site with a digger on 5th January 2021 and at approximately 4.30 – 5pm they discovered the human remains.  

An extensive Garda investigation is currently under way lead by Superintend Adrian Gamble.  A full post mortem was carried out. DNA samples were obtained but when set against the National DNA Database, a match was NOT obtained.  The services of the Missing Persons Unit and the Garda National Protective Services Bureau were engaged. Items of evidence are currently being examined by a Forensic Scientist. Carbon dating and all available scientific resources have been engaged as part of the investigation. 

Description of deceased: 

• Remains believed to be that of a female aged approximately 70 years +
• Height approximately 5’0 to 5’2’’ (when alive)
• Large framed
• Suffered from arthritis
• Wore dentures
• Was wearing a faded white garment on the upper body

Gardaí Appeal: 

• Someone in the community must know how the female skeletal remains came to be at this locally known “tipping point” off the Shanty Path at Roxborough, Midleton, Co. Cork
• An Garda Síochána are determined to formally identify the deceased and treat her with the respect and dignity that she deserves
• An Garda Siochana want and need to provide closure for a family that, at this early stage, remain unknown and ensure that the remains are brought to a final resting place
• House to house enquiries have been undertaken in the local area, local missing person records have been reviewed as have missing person records retained by the Garda National Missing Persons Unit.
• The investigation is ongoing and further scientific resources, including Carbon Dating have been engaged as part of the investigation.
• Gardaí are appealing to the public for any information, no matter how small, they might have to help. 

Gardaí at Midleton Garda Station investigating Tel: (021) 4621550

On 28 December 2020, Gheorghe Virvara, aged 36 years, was reported by his wife as a missing person to Coolock Garda Station.

Gheorghe Virvara is a Romanian national but has been living in the Burnell Court area off the Malahide Road. He was last seen by his wife Alexandra, at Father Collins Park, Clongriffin, Dublin 13 on 27th December 2020. They went for a walk together at 4pm but left separately, with Gheorghe leaving on foot. Alexandra then received a telephone call from Gheorghe at approximately 6.39pm where he told her he was going to get a taxi home. He did not say where he was at that time. Gheorghe never returned home.

Extensive searches have taken place. The Irish Coast Guard has searched from Portmarnock to Red Rock in Sutton. Garda Air Support Unit have carried out searches in the Howth area.
Ground searches have been carried out by Garda Search team on the Howth Cliff walk.
All hospitals have been contacted and CCTV has been canvassed extensively of all public transport to and from the area.
There has also been a number of Press release and social media appeals carried out.

Gheorghe’s brother Laurentiu will be giving an interview via video link.

Gheorghe is described as being 36 years old, approximately 5 foot 9 inches tall and stocky build. He has bald hair and brown eyes. When last seen Gheorghe was wearing a black winter jacket, dark blue cotton trousers and blue Nike runners.

Appeal

• Gardaí would like to thank the public for their assistance to date. However, despite an extensive investigation both Gheorghe’s family and An Garda Síochána are still hoping that the public can provide information that can assist the investigation.
• Did anyone see Gheorghe after leaving Father Collins Park on the 27 December 2020.
• Did anyone see Gheorghe in Howth on the evening of the 27 December 2020 or since then?

Gardaí at Coolock investigating - 01-6664200

Gardaí in Wexford are seeking the public’s assistance in locating missing person Joe Delaney who was reported missing on 17th November 2021.

On the date in question walkers at Rosslare Point discovered a motorcycle and helmet parked on the beach. These witnesses reported to Gardaí they had seen the motorcycle at the same location two days previous. The motorcycle’s registered owner is Joe Delaney, a 52 year old American National living in Wexford for a number of years. 

A Garda missing person investigation commenced and Mr Delaney’s last known movements were traced to a service station, Distillery Road, Wexford Y35 FR98 where he obtained fuel for his motorcycle at approx. 3.15 pm.

It is believed that Joe then travelled to Rosslare Point on his motorcycle, where he had a brief interaction with persons walking on the beach. There have been no further confirmed sightings of Joe. 

A few days later some personal belongings of Joe’s were found near the beach at Rosslare Point. Joe has not made contact with any family or friends since his disappearance, which is completely out of character. Joe’s parents are living in Massachusetts in the United States and are understandably upset regarding his disappearance. 

Extensive land and coastal searches have been carried out with assistance from the Irish Coastguard Units based at Rosslare Strand, Kilmore Quay and Curracloe along with assistance from the Civil Defence and a SARDA Dog Unit. 

Description:

• 54 Years
• 5’ 6’’
• Heavy build
• American national

Appeal

• Gardaí are appealing for anyone who with information which may assist us with finding Joe to make contact with Wexford Garda Station 053 9165200. 

Gardaí at Wexford Garda Station, investigating tel: (053) 916 5200

Gardaí in Galway are seeking the public’s assistance in locating missing person Stephen Cunningham.

Stephen was reported missing from his home in Tir na gCapaill, Ballybrit, Galway on 7 November 2021, by his mother who had not had contact with him since 29 October 2021. 

Known Movements of Stephen:

• 5 November: Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon where it is known that Stephen purchased fuel for his car, a silver VW Passat (reg 08-G-3521), at the time.
• Later the same day he was seen at a Londis store at Castlebar and at a service station, Belclare, Westport, Co. Mayo. It is thought that Stephen may have visited Croagh Patrick on this date.
• 6 November: There were further sightings of Stephen at Dunnes Stores, Briar Hill and very possibly on Middle St, Galway at approximately 3.30pm.
• 10 November: Stephen’s car was found near the N59 at Bunnakill, Maam Cross, Galway. Gardaí believe that the car had been parked there since Sunday November 7th and that it is possible that Stephen visited the pilgrimage spot of Mám Éan nearby. Despite extensive searches Stephen still hasn’t been located. His family remain extremely concerned for him for his safety and welfare.

Description of Stephen:

• - 32 years old, 6’ 2’’ in height with a broad build.
• - Blue eyes and short red hair.
• - At last sighting Stephen was wearing a beige coat, blue jeans with cuts at the knees and beige canvas shoes. 

Garda Appeal:

• Landowners and farmers throughout Connemara when walking or working their land to remain vigilant and alert to any trace of Stephen.
• To accommodation providers, particularly those near to The Western Way, to let us know if they know of any person matching Stephen’s description who availed of or enquired about accommodation.
• Those people returning to holiday homes or ordinarily vacant properties over the Christmas Period to let us know if they notice anything unusual such as an item of clothing or signs that someone may have camped nearby or took shelter.
• Gardaí expect that there will be more walkers and hikers in this area over the Christmas Holidays and we appeal to them to keep Stephen in mind and let us know if they see or find anything that may assist the searches.
• Finally Gardaí would like to appeal to the public in general. If you have any information in relation to Stephen’s disappearance please call. 

Gardaí at Galway Garda Station, investigating tel: (091) 538 000

Gardaí at Pearse Street Garda Station renewed their appeal to the public in tracing the whereabouts of Trevor Deely who was last captured on CCTV passing the Bank of Ireland ATM machine on Haddington Road, at approximately 4.14 a.m. on the 8 December 2000. 

On the 8th December, 2000, following his Christmas party, Trevor called to his place of work to collect an umbrella for his journey home.

CCTV footage from the last sightings of Trevor Deely has been digitally enhanced. The CCTV footage captures a male dressed in black outside the rear entrance of Bank of Ireland, Asset Management Offices on Wilton Terrace, Dublin 2 between 3am and 3.34am, prior to Trevor Deely arriving. 

At 3.34am, moments before Trevor approaches his place of work this male steps out onto the footpath and follows Trevor Deely to the back gate of Bank of Ireland, Asset Management before conversing with him at 3.35am.

Trevor was last captured on CCTV passing the Bank of Ireland ATM machine on Haddington Road at approximately 4.14.21am on the 8 December 2000. 

Gardaí believe that the male acting suspiciously outside of Trevor’s place of work is the same male that is seen passing the Bank of Ireland ATM on Haddington Road at 4.14.55am, 34 seconds after Trevor Deely that morning.

The Investigation Team at Pearse Street Garda Station have continued to investigate Trevor’s disappearance and make the following appeal: 

Appeal: 

• Last December marked twenty years since the disappearance of Trevor.
• The depth of the loss endured by the Deely family is as raw today as it was in December 2000.  There has been no reprieve or sense of peace for the family.
• The last confirmed sighting of Trevor was at 4.14am on the 8 December 2000.  He was captured on CCTV footage on Haddington Road at this time.  Also captured on this footage is an unknown male.  This footage has been widely circulated since 2017,  yet we have been unable to establish the identity of the male in the footage who appears to wait at the gates of the Bank of Ireland, Asset Management Offices on Wilton Terrace, Dublin 2  - Trevor’s place of work – for in excess of 34mins.
• This area of Dublin 2, particularly around the canal is an area where people would have socialised in 2000.  Trevor’s disappearance was so well documented in 2000 that there is no doubt that people frequenting this area at that time would have been aware of this case.
• Gardaí are appealing to people who were around the canal area that night to come forward and make contact. Gardaí know that people were on the canal and in that general area on the 7th/8th of December who have declined to speak with the investigation team. For whatever reason they chose not to engage with the investigation in 2000 so we are appealing for them to make contact now.
• All persons that come forward will be dealt with sensitively.  There is no blame or shame for not coming forward sooner. Gardaí believe that the key to discovering what happened to Trevor lies in information held by people who socialised in that area.  No matter how insignificant they may feel their information is – it could be the detail that we are seeking.
• Crimestoppers have pledged an award of €100,000 for information which significantly assists the investigation into the disappearance of Trevor Deely. 

Gardaí at Pearse Street Garda Station, tel: (01) 666 9000

The Gardaí at Ballina, Co. Mayo are appealing for information in relation to missing person Alin-Stefan Hiemesch. Alin is a Romanian National aged 31 years, who has previously resided at Kill, Co. Kildare and Clondalkin Co. Dublin. He moved to Ballina on the 15 December 2020 where he was staying with friends at Barrett Street in the town. Alin worked part-time as a mechanic at a garage in Crossmolina, Co. Mayo. 

Last Known Movements:

• Monday, 1 March 2021 - Alin left his apartment on Barrett Street at 3pm and has not been seen by his friends to date.
• Tuesday, 2 March - it is known that Alin briefly returned to his apartment, leaving it again at approximately 1.30pm. Later that day shortly after 2.20pm, Alin is captured on CCTV on Bury Street, Ballina while walking towards the ‘font junction’. Then shortly before 2.50pm he made a call from his mobile phone to a local person. (His phone has not been used since and is not currently operational). 

Investigation:

• Investigations to date have failed to identify Alin leaving Ballina by either bus or train.
• Extensive searches have been conducted in Ballina on land and water with Gardaí being assisted by local people, the Garda Water Unit, Gráinne Úaile Sub Aqua Club and by River Moy Search and Rescue, Ballina.
• Gardaí have visited addresses that Alin frequented in the Clondalkin area of Dublin. Investigations in Clondalkin and searches in the Ballina area have failed to provide evidence as to Alin’s location. Gardaí and Alin’s family fear for his well-being and safety. 

            Description:

• Male
• Aged 31 years
• Approximately 5'10"
• Approximately 14st in weight
• Short, black hair 

            Clothing:

• Grey hooded jacket
• Black slim track pants
• Black runners
• Purple and blue horizontally stripped woollen hat with a notable red bobble on top
• Distinctive black and white face covering
• Black laptop case 

Appeal:

Do you know where or with whom Alin stayed on the night of Monday the 1 March 2021?

• Did you or anyone you know give Alin a lift out of Ballina on the 2 March 2021 or on subsequent dates?
• Has Alin made contact with you or are you aware of anyone he may have spoken to in recent weeks?
• Do you have information as to Alin’s whereabouts at this time?
• If Alin is watching he is asked to contact a family member, friend or An Garda Síochána and let them know that he is safe and well. 

Gardaí at Ballina Garda Station, tel: (096) 20560

Gardaí at Salthill Garda Station are investigating the disappearance of thirty-three year old Barbara Walsh from Rusheenamanagh, Carna, Co. Galway who is missing from her home since 22 June 1985.

Barbara was married and was a mother to six children. She was at home in Carna, with her husband and six young children, ranging in age from 16 years old to just 7 months. There was a small gathering of family and friends in the house and the last sighing of Barbara was in the early hours of the 22 June 1985.

She was never seen or heard from again. An extensive Garda Investigation was launched and remains live and active.

Barbara’s family appealed for information in relation to their Mother’s disappearance after thirty years.

Appeal:      

• Subsequent AGS Investigations have confirmed that Barbara did not emigrate to Australia and a reported sighting of a woman out walking near Carna in the early hours of Sat 22 June 1985 was not Barbara.
• An Garda Síochána in Galway will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Barbara’s disappearance.
• Carna is a close-knit Gaeltacht community and AGS believe there are people in that community who may have information that can help the investigation.
• AGS are hopeful that with that passage of time, people may feel more comfortable sharing whatever information they may have.
• AGS appealed to the Carna community, and to those who may have lived locally at the time, who may know something - no matter what that information might be, and no matter how small - to please make contact with Gardaí.
• Do you have information that may assist the investigation? AGS would like to reassure the public that any people who come forward will be treated with care.

Gardaí Salthill Garda Station, tel: (091) 514 720

The Gardaí at Dundrum Garda Station are investigating the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of fifty five year old Gerard Taylor who is missing from his home since Saturday 25 May 2019. 

Gerard left his home in Sandyford on Saturday morning. He was last seen at 11am walking up Kellystown Road past Taylor’s Three Rock Public House. 

Gerard is described as being six-foot tall, of medium build with grey hair and blue eyes.

When last seen he was wearing a navy blue sports cap, a black Regatta jacket, green chino trousers, casual navy flat trainers with a white sole and white stripes on the side. 

Gerard’s family are extremely concerned for his safety and have made previous appeals for information on Gerard’s disappearance on Crimecall. 

Appeal: 

• The last confirmed sighting of Gerarad was at Kellystown Road Rathfarnham, Dublin on the 25/5/2019 at 11.06am, walking in the direction of Stackstown/Ticknock area. Gardaí appealed to anyone who was in the area at this time to please come forward with any information they may have.
• Gardaí also appealed to anyone who frequents the Ticknock area including hillwalkers, cyclists, dog walkers, and any motorists who may have dashcam footage.
• Civil defence / Dublin mountain rescue continue to offer valuable assistance and expertise to continue the searches which may involve the use of drones in the Ticknock area. 

Gardaí at Dundrum Garda Station, tel: (01) 666 5600

Gardaí from Clondalkin are investigating the murder of John Cunningham who was 26 years old when he was seriously assaulted with a snooker cue and knife, by a group of men at the junction of the New Nangor Road and the Fonthill Road, Clondalkin on the 4 November 2005. John Cunningham later died in hospital on 6th November 2005 as a result of his injuries.  

John Cunningham was married to Mary and they had two children with a third child on the way.  

Gardaí have been investigating Johns murder since 2005 and over 200 witness statements have been taken to date. 

Appeal 

• With advances in forensic science, Gardaí believe they are close to solving this case; but need the public’s help to ultimately do that. This murder featured on Crimecall in April 2006 and we got a great response. We are hoping for that again tonight and we are keen to speak to anyone with information in relation to this crime. 

• It is hoped that people who may once have had loyalties that prevented them coming forward initially, can do so now due to a change in circumstances over the past 15 years. 

• Gardaí are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who, at any time over the years, was confided in by those responsible for John’s death, or anyone who may have heard someone speaking about their involvement in the attack, even in a social setting. 

Gardaí at Clondalkin Garda station are investigating tel: 01-6667600

Gardaí at Portlaoise Garda Station are re-appealing for information into the disappearance of 25 year old Fiona Pender who was last seen in August 1996.

Fiona was living at Church Street, Tullamore in a flat that she shared with her partner.

She was 25 years old and seven and a half months pregnant. Fiona’s family were looking forward to the arrival of her baby following the tragic death of her older brother Mark, the previous year. 

Fiona was a native of Tullamore and grew up in Connolly Park, in the town, with her parents Sean and Josephine, her older brother Mark and younger brother John. Fiona was well known in Tullamore and had worked as a model and a hairdresser in the locality. 

Garda Appeal: 

• An extensive Garda investigation was undertaken and a large amount of searches were conducted in surrounding areas through the years, but unfortunately no trace of Fiona has been found.
• While arrests were made in relation to this case, unfortunately charges were never brought. Gardaí are seeking information that would help in bringing the person(s) responsible for her death to justice.
• Fiona’s family were greatly affected by the disappearance of Fiona and her mother Josephine, who campaigned for years for justice for her daughter, sadly passed away in 2017 without having Fiona’s body returned to her. Fiona’s father Sean died in 2000 not knowing what had happened to his daughter.
• Since Fiona’s disappearance 25 years ago circumstances may have changed and perhaps there is someone who has information who didn’t feel comfortable coming forward previously but is now in a position to do so.
• An Garda Síochána would like to reassure any person who feels that they can assist with the investigation that any information received will be treated in a compassionate and sensitive manner. 

Gardaí at Portlaoise Garda Station are investigating tel: (057) 867 4100

The Gardaí at Henry Street Garda Station are re-appealing for information in relation to the Murder of ninety two year old Jim Mulqueen in October 2009.

Jim’s body was found in his home at Ballymakerry, Kilcoman, by a neighbour on the morning of Friday the 23 October 2009. There was no sign of forced entry at Jim’s home, however the front door was open and a sum of money was missing from the house.

Jim was a defenceless man who lived a simple life, he occasionally socialised at a local pub in Newcastle West and visited a local bookies. Jim was recorded on CCTV in a book makers just a week before his death.

The last sighting of Jim was on Thursday the 22 October 2012 around midday filling the kettle from a barrel of water outside his house. 

  Appeal:

• - Anybody at this stage who may have any information, who for whatever reason has not come forward to please contact us.
• - Did anyone see anybody acting suspiciously in the Kilcolman area or in the immediate vicinity of Ballymakerry on the days preceding the finding of Jim's body?
• - Anyone within the community who may be able to assist with this investigation to come forward. The investigation team are anxious to speak to any person(s) who feel that they may now be in a position to contact them and would like to assure them that they will be treated in a sensitive manner.

Henry Street Garda Station, Investigating, Tel: (061) - 212400

The Gardaí at Finglas Garda Station are continuing to investigate the double murder of Mark Noonan and Glen Murphy that occurred on Tuesday the 23 November 2010, 11.40pm approximately at Clearwater Service Station, Finglas,Dublin 11.

Both men travelled to the service station in Mark’s Toyota Avensis. A BMW saloon vehicle registration number 06D13665 pulled into the forecourt of the service station and a number of shots were discharged, both men died at the scene.

The BMW drove out of the service station and travelled onto the Finglas dual carriage way. They travelled onto the M50 and exited at the M50/M1 Junction. They travelled northbound on the M1 and drove through the M1 Toll Plaza at Drogheda, Co. Meath. 

Garda Appeal:

• The investigation into Mark Noonan and Glen Murphy’s murder remains an active and open investigation, which is being co-ordinated from an incident room at Finglas Garda station. To date the investigation has developed many lines of enquiry and numerous statements have been taken. 

• Gardaí would like to take this opportunity to thank the public for their assistance to date. However Gardaí believe that there are individuals out there who, with a passage of time, may now feel ready to assist with the investigation. Gardaí would like to assure these people they will be treated with sensitivity and compassion. 

• Garda believe that a BMW 5 series was used by the suspects. Did you see this car either before, during or since the murders? In addition to the known escape route taken to the M1 toll, Gardaí believe that this car was in the Warrenpoint area of Co. Down in the days prior to the murders. 

• Do you know who the occupants of this car were on the night in question? Did you see the car or the suspects involved either before or after the murders? Are you in a position to offer that critical piece of information that will help the Noonan and Murphy families get closure? If so, please get in touch. 

Finglas Garda Station investigating tel: (01) 666 7500

Gardaí at Tallaght Garda Station are investigating the murder of sixty three year old Michael McCoy who died as a result of an assault near his home in Tallaght. His body was discovered at a forest track on Ballinascorney Road Upper, Brittas, Co. Dublin. 

On Thursday 29 September 2016, Michael brought his two dogs for a walk in the nearby Ballinascorney forest. His red Daihatsu Cuore was parked at the entrance to the forest by at least 8.30am that morning. 

Michael’s wife returned home that evening at around 5.30pm but Michael wasn’t there. She became alarmed at around 7pm when he still had not returned home. Michael’s wife and one of his daughters went looking for him and found his car parked at the forest. They searched for Michael and called out for the dogs. They were worried as they thought he may have had a fall. They contacted the Gardaí who utilised the services of the local Mountain Rescue Units, who searched the woods and found Michael lying on a footpath in the early hours of the 30th September. He had been assaulted and was pronounced dead a short time later. 

Michael’s family and local rector Rev. William Deverell have appealed for the public’s assistance in solving this case.

Appeal:

• If you were in the Ballinascorney area back in 29/30 September 2016 or feel that you may be able to assist with the investigation can you please come forward?
• Gardaí believe that there may be people with information in the community who have not yet come forward and would appeal to them to do so now.
• This is a live investigation and while some progress has been made (including a number of arrests) more evidence is required to bring those responsible to justice.
• We are making a direct appeal to the person(s) responsible or people who know who was involved in the killing of Michael.
• It may be the case that with the passage of time or change in circumstances, people who felt they could not come forward previously may now feel more comfortable in doing so. People who do wish to come forward will be treated sensitively. 

Tallaght Garda Station, Investigating, Tel: (01) - 666 6000

Gardaí at Navan Garda Station are investigating the Murder of twenty-six year old Paul Gallagher who was fatally injured at a field at Ballymacan, Slane, Co. Meath on Monday the 28 July 2014. 

Paul and another man travelled towards Dundalk on the M1 motorway earlier in the day, sometime after 4pm. The other man was driving his red Volkswagen golf car and Paul was a passenger. They travelled through the M1 Toll Bridge at Drogheda and may have exited the motorway at junction 14.

Paul met someone at the hard shoulder and they spoke for a short time. He got back into the car and they drove onto the M1 Southbound motorway. They were seen at the Applegreen services at Castlebellingham. They had no change for the toll bridge so they exited the M1 at Drogheda. Paul directed the other man down a number of country roads. They travelled under the bridge at Oldbridge, towards Slane. They came to a farmhouse at Ballymacan. Paul got out and seemed slightly apprehensive. He got back into the car and directed the other man to return home. They stopped at the Brink Service Station in Slane and travelled on a number of country roads back to Dublin. Paul returned home.

At around 10.30pm, Paul contacted this other man again and asked him to drive him back to Drogheda. They returned to the farm at Ballymacan where they may have been joined by two other men. Paul and the other man became separated. Moments later shots were heard and Paul’s body was discovered in a field two days later. 

Garda Appeal: 

• Did you see Paul Gallagher and another man earlier in the day on Monday the 28 July at Junction 14 on the hard shoulder of the M1, and/or in the general area?
• Were you in the Tullyallen area of Drogheda and did you see any suspicious activity?
• Were you in the Ballymacan area on this night and did you see any suspicious activity?
• Were you the driver of a Subaru car that was in the area on the Monday night, 28th July 2014, or did anyone witness this vehicle in the vicinity on that night or at any other time in the days leading up to the 28th July 2014?
• Do you have any information in relation to the murder of Paul Gallagher that may assist the investigation? 

Gardaí at Navan Garda Station investigating. Tel: 046-9036100

The Gardaí at Castleblaney are investigating the murder of Paul Quinn at the Tullyvanus area of Co. Monaghan on Saturday, 20 October 2007. Gardaí believe that Paul was lured to a shed by a number of men, which resulted in him being seriously assaulted.

The investigation into Paul’s murder is ongoing and of the utmost priority for An Garda Síochána. An Incident room set up at Castleblayney Garda Station in 2007 remains open and active. In March 2020 a thematic review of this investigation was completed by the Garda Serious Crime Review team. 

During the course of this investigation, 23 people have been arrested. This includes 14 persons who were arrested in this jurisdiction by An Garda Síochána, and 9 persons who were arrested by the Police Service of Northern Ireland. 

Gardaí continue to work with their colleagues in the Police Service of Northern Ireland in an effort to solve this crime. As recently as August 2021 detectives from An Garda Síochána and officers from the PSNI Major Investigation Team conducted enquiries in the South Armagh area as part of the investigation. 

Garda Appeal:

• The answer to this crime lies within the Cullyhanna, Crossmaglen and wider South Armagh community. 

• Up to 10 men are suspected of involvement in the murder of Paul. That’s 10 wives/girlfriends/partners, 10 extended family circles that have information concerning this murder. It is now 14 years since and the appeal is to that wide cohort of individuals to assist the investigation. Loyalties change over time and these people may now be better placed to unburden themselves. 

• Specifically, Gardaí are seeking information in relation to a white van with bull-bars attached to the front. This van was used during the crime, and it was known to have been mobile around the South Armagh area prior to Paul’s murder.   

• Progress is being made, persons have come forward and assisted the investigation, whom we haven’t spoken to before, but again we are seeking that missing link to solve Paul’s murder. Gardaí would like to assure any potential callers that the information they impart will be treated with sensitivity and compassion. 

Carrickmacross Garda Station, investigating tel: 353 42 969 0190

The Gardaí at Ballina are investigating the murder of twenty eight year old Sandra Collins who went missing on Monday the 4 December 2000 from the small village of Killala, Co. Mayo.  She had lived in the village with her Aunt who she looked after for a number of years. Sandra left her Aunt's house at Courthouse Street, Killala on the Monday evening at 7.30 pm. 

At 7.45pm she arrived at a local shop where she bought some groceries for her Aunt and a neighbour. She was last seen at the local takeaway at around 11:15pm that night. Four days later on the 8th December 2000 her fleece was found on the pier in Killala. A half-pound of sausages that Sandra bought in the shop earlier where still in the pocket of the fleece.

Sandra’s brother Patrick made an appeal earlier in the year for information to help the family find Sandra’s remains, and allow them to bury their sister. 

Chief Superintendent Tony Healy was also in studio to explain the impact of such a case on a small community like Kilalla. He made the following appeal: 

• We would like to thank the public for their assistance to date. However despite an extensive investigation both Sandra’s family and An Garda Síochána are still hoping that you can you provide the investigation with any information that may assist the team?
• Do you have information on the whereabouts of Sandra’s remains? Can you take us from that last sighting of Sandra at the local chipper in Kilala to where her remains are now?
• The investigation continues as it has done for the last 20 years. An Garda Síochána is committed to seeking justice for Sandra and the Collins family. We may or may not have spoken to you previously, either way it’s never too late to assist the investigation. Perhaps you have information you thought was insignificant at the time, or it could be that after 20 years your circumstances have changed. We would like to assure you that you will be treated in a respectful, compassionate and sensitive manner.
• There is a Crime stoppers reward for significant information (1800 250 025).
• Sandra’s family have been grieving her loss for 20 years now. It is possible that information you have may help progress this investigation and help give the Collins’ family some closure as they approach another Christmas without her. It’s never too late to do the right thing and give Sandra’s family what they deserve. 

Gardaí Ballina Garda Station, tel: (090) 663 8300

The Gardaí at Tallaght Garda Station are investigating the murder of Stephen Lynch, which occurred at Brookview Close, Tallaght, Dublin 24 on Thursday 13 April 2017.  

Stephen Lynch got a lift from a friend to Brookview Close, where he got out of his friends vehicle.  He walked up to a silver Ford Focus hatchback and engaged in a conversation with the three people that were sitting in the car, through the front passenger window.  There was some shouting heard and then the Ford Focus proceeded to drive over Stephen.  Stephen died from his injuries at the scene. 

The occupants of the Ford Focus got out of the car, abandoned it, and ran from the scene.  This vehicle was recovered by Gardaí and has been preserved.  One of the suspects ran down Brookview Close onto Brookview Park and towards Brookdfield Road.  This suspect was not seen after this.  The other two suspects took a left turn off Brookview Close and headed towards Brookview Avenue.  They were then chased by some of the residents of Brookview Close.  One of these suspects was tripped up by a resident.  This suspect fell and cut his hand but got up and continued running onto Brookview Avenue.  

There is currently a Crimestoppers Appeal seeking information. 

Descriptions of Suspects 

One of the suspects involved is described as being a tanned male, approximately 5ft 8 inches, think with black hair and wearing a green or navy rain jacket. 

A second suspect is described as being very thin with a gaunt face, dark brown hair and wearing a red Bubble jacket. 

Appeal: 

• This is a live investigation and while some progress has been (including a number of arrests) more evidence is required to bring the suspects to justice.
• Gardaí made a direct appeal to the people involved, or to those who know the people involved in Stephen’s murder.
• It may be the case that with the passage of time, or change in circumstances, people who felt they could not come forward previously may now feel more comfortable in doing so.
• Investigators reassured the public that people who do wish to come forward will be treated sensitively. 

Gardaí at Tallaght Garda Station, tel: 01-6666000

The Gardaí at Tallaght Garda Station are investigating the murder of Stephen Lynch, which occurred at Brookview Close, Tallaght, Dublin 24 on Thursday 13 April 2017.  

Stephen Lynch got a lift from a friend to Brookview Close, where he got out of his friend’s vehicle. He walked up to a silver Ford Focus hatchback and engaged in a conversation with the three people that were sitting in the car, through the front passenger window. There was some shouting heard and then the Ford Focus proceeded to drive over Stephen. Stephen died from his injuries at the scene. 

The occupants of the Ford Focus got out of the car, abandoned it, and ran from the scene.  This vehicle was recovered by Gardaí and has been preserved. One of the suspects ran down Brookview Close onto Brookview Park and towards Brookdfield Road. This suspect was not seen after this. The other two suspects took a left turn off Brookview Close and headed towards Brookview Avenue. They were then chased by some of the residents of Brookview Close.  One of these suspects was tripped up by a resident.  This suspect fell and cut his hand but got up and continued running onto Brookview Avenue.  

There is currently a Crimestoppers Appeal seeking information.

Descriptions of Suspects: 

One of the suspects involved is described as being a tanned male, approximately 5ft 8 inches, think with black hair and wearing a green or navy rain jacket. 

A second suspect is described as being very thin with a gaunt face, dark brown hair and wearing a red Bubble jacket. 

Garda Appeal:

• This is a live investigation and while some progress has been (including a number of arrests) more evidence is required to bring the suspects to justice.
• We are making a direct appeal to whoever is suspected of involvement or people who know who was involved, in Stephen’s murder.
• It may be the case with the passage of time or change in circumstances, people who felt they could not come forward previously may now feel more comfortable in doing so.
• People who do wish to come forward will be treated sensitively. 

Gardaí at Tallaght Garda Station, investigating. Tel: 01-6666000

Gardaí at Portlaoise Garda Station are investigating the murder of fifty-six year old William Delaney who went missing on 30 January 2019.

William was a Tipperary native who lived in Portlaoise where he had a large family. On the morning of the day in question he left Portlaoise General Hospital where he had been receiving treatment. It was established that William collected his welfare payments at Portlaoise Post Office after leaving the hospital.

The last confirmed sighting of William was at approximately 3pm on the 30 January 2019 in Monasterevin Co. Kildare where he called to visit a relative who lived in the area. The relation wasn’t at home but William was spotted outside the premises which is situated on the old Cork-Dublin Road directly opposite a local landmark known as the Hazel Hotel. William was then reported missing by his family on 6 March 2019.

In June 2019 Gardaí received information that William Delaney had been killed and that his body had been buried at a location in Laois. A comprehensive search was conducted in the area surrounding the Rock of Dunamaise but no remains were discovered.

Crimestoppers are now launching an appeal for information on the murder of William Delaney.

Appeal: 

• Gardaí are appealing for anyone who has any information on the disappearance and murder of William Delaney.
• Did you see William on the days leading up to his disappearance?
• Were you in the Monasterevin area on the date in question and did you see William?
• Gardaí believe that people are withholding information on the murder of William Delaney. They hope that with the passing of time these people will now be able to come forward and offer whatever information they have. 

Gardaí Portlaoise Garda Station investigating. Tel: 057-8674100

Paraic Coffey was only eighteen-years old when he was fatally injured by a vehicle while walking home from a disco sometime after 3am on the morning of 9 June 1996. Paraic was walking home to Rathcairn, Athboy from the Darnely Lodge Hotel on the Dunderry Rd when the collision occurred. 

A local taxi driver had passed Paraic walking on the road and had observed a small dark coloured car approaching him from the opposite direction at 3.05am. A couple came across Paraic on the roadway seriously injured minutes later. He was removed to hospital by ambulance, and was pronounced dead on arrival. 

It has been 25 years since Paraic’s tragic death and despite a prolonged Garda investigation, there has been no closure for the Coffey family. To date nobody has been prosecuted for Paraic’s death. 

Garda appeal:

• Do you have any information relating to this case that may bring it to a conclusion? Gardaí would like to assure those that have information and for whatever reason have not previously come forward, that they will be treated sensitively.
• A lot of people who were teenagers and young adults 25 years ago, now have families of their own and would have a deeper understanding of the unbearable loss that the Coffey family have suffered and their continued search for answers.
• The nature of this incident would have resulted in damage to the vehicle involved and Gardaí want to appeal to anyone who remember a family member/friend having unexplained damage to their car or perhaps someone who was asked to carry out repairs in circumstances that seemed strange or suspicious.
• Gardaí want to ask people to look inside themselves and ask one question: Is there anything I can say that may in some way be important to this case?
• Gardaí want to speak to the person or persons directly involved in the incident that led to the death of Paraic. It is not too late to come forward and explain what happened and bring closure for yourself and the Coffey family. 

Gardaí at Kells Garda Station are investigating tel: (046) 928 0820

Gardaí in Raheny are investigating a robbery that occurred at An Post, Kilbarrack Shopping Centre on 27 July 2020.

On the date in question at approximately 16.30, three suspects arrived on a silver Yamaha motor cycle registration 00-C-12051 to the Grange Park View entrance of the Kilbarrack Shopping Centre. Two of the men got off the motor cycle and ran into An Post located just inside the Kilbarrack Shopping Centre entrance. A customer who was in the Post Office at the time was grabbed by one of the suspects who then pointed a semi-automatic machine gun towards her. The other suspect started hitting the security screen to the post office with a lump hammer. The customer managed to move to the side of the Post Office. The two suspects then started demanding money from the Post Office staff.

After getting a significant amount of money, the two suspects left the Post Office and ran back out to the final suspect who was waiting on the motor cycle, and pointing a gun into the entrance of the building.

On exiting the building, all three suspects boarded the motorcycle and left, turning left in the direction of Kilbarrack Train Station.

Description of Suspects

Suspect 1

Suspect 1 was the driver of the motor cycle and carried a semi-automatic machine gun. He was approximately 6ft tall and was 20 – 30 years old. He was wearing a grey Nike hoody, a camouflage snood, a yellow and black AGV Helmet, navy Puma tracksuit bottoms and white with black and gold Nike Air270 runners.

Suspect 2

Suspect 2 carried a lump hammer into the Post Office. He was 20 – 30 years old. He was wearing navy Calvin Klein tracksuit bottoms, grey with white and orange Nike Air270 runners, a grey / green Puma hoody and was carrying a black Adidas backpack with white writing. He was wearing a grey snood.

Suspect 3

Suspect 3 stayed on the motor cycle and carried a hand gun. He was 20 – 30 years old. He was wearing a light grey hoody with the hood up underneath a black hoody, a black face mask and black with white Nike Air270 runners.

Footwear

Appeal

• Did anyone witness this incident? Can you remember seeing three people on a motorcycle in the vicinity of Kilbarrack Shopping Centre between 4.15pm and 4.45pm on Monday 27th July 2020? Did anyone see a motorcycle with three people on it at this time in the vicinity of Donaghmede, Donahies, Malahide Road, Priorswood Road or Darndale area?

• The three suspects wore distinctive clothing and distinctive footwear

• This was a particularly traumatising event for the customer in the Post Office and I would appeal to anyone who may know who the culprits are or recognise any of the clothing worn by someone they know to contact us.

Gardaí at Raheny investigating - 01 6664300

Gardaí at Blackrock Garda station are investigating a robbery that occurred on Sunday 14th February 2021 at approximately 9.40am (this was Valentine’s Day when there was rain in the morning). 

Circumstances - Male shop assistant had a firearm pointed at him and was forced to open the cash tills. A second female shop assistant arrived from the rear of the shop and she also had the firearm pointed at her as she went behind the store counter and began emptying the cash drawer. 

The male assistant had the firearm pointed at him for a second occasion and further demands were made for cash. The suspect then left the store passing another customer at the door entrance. This male then ran in the direction of Brookfield Terrace, Blackrock. 

Description of suspect  - Male, 5 6” to  5 7”   in height, 25 to 35 years old, skinny/thin build, long face, blue eyes and spoke with a Dublin accent. Male was wearing black hooded padded jacket, black bottoms, black runners with white rim on bottom and sole, black hat and scarf / balaclava under his hood and black gloves.  

Firearm Used – black metal handgun which the suspected offender loaded / racked whilst pointing it at the shop assistant. 

Vehicle of Interest – black Mercedes C-Class, possibly a 08/09 registration. This car is black in colour with chrome rim around windows. 

Appeal:

• Were you at Carysfort Ave, Brookfield Terrace, or Avoca Ave prior to 9.30am and or at 9.45am approx? Did you see any other persons who may be of assistance to investigators?
• Did you see a black Mercedes C-class or its occupant(s) immediately prior to or during the robbery?

• Did you see a male customer, (person of interest), who made a purchase at the shop at 9.15am approx.? Did you see him walk to or from the shop?
• Do you have any knowledge of this crime that may assist the investigation or in relation to those responsible? 

                                  Garda at Blackrock Station investigating Tel: 01-6665200

Gardaí at Clondalkin Garda Station are investigating a robbery that occurred at an eating establishment at the Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 on 17 January 2021.

At approximately 19:39 on the night in question a white Volkswagon Golf registration 141-SO-909, pulled into a retail park and two suspects were seen exiting the vehicle and entering an eating establishment. 

The first suspect was armed with chisel and the second suspect carried a crutch.  The two suspects entered the eating establishment. Suspect (1) jumped over the counter and threatened the staff members.  Suspect (2) jumped onto the counter and waived his crutch in a threatening manner towards the staff. 

Suspect (1) then took the two cash tills and passed them to the second suspect. They both exited the eating establishment and left in a white Volkswagen Golf. CCTV footage from Dublin Bus shows their vehicle being involved in a collision at a roundabout at the junction of the Nangor Road and Fonthill Road. The two males left the car and ran towards the Bawnogue area, and then Alpine Heights estate, Clondalkin. One of the suspects dropped one of the tills at a green area in the Alpine Heights estate which was subsequently recovered by Gardaí. The second till remains outstanding. 

Description of Suspects: 

The first suspect (male):

was armed with a chisel which he held in his right hand. He is described as wearing a black jacket, light grey tracksuit bottoms, a light grey hoodie underneath his coat with the hood up. He wore a black peaked baseball cap underneath the hood, dark coloured gloves, a white mask and black runners with white on the soles. He was thought to be aged in his 20’s, with what’s reported to be a strong Dublin accent. 

The second suspect (male):

 was carrying a crutch in his right hand and a shopping bag in his left hand. He was wearing a maroon coloured hooded jacket with white strings. There was a white logo on the left arm of his jacket. He also wore dark coloured tracksuit bottoms, navy runners with white laces, a black hat, black mask and black gloves.  He appeared the older of the two suspects, possibly aged in his 30’s. 

Gardai Appeal:

• Anyone in the area of the Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 on the evening of 17 January 2021 between the hours of 7.20pm and 7.40pm and who saw anything suspicious or untoward to come forward and assist An Garda Síochána with this investigation.
• Anyone with any information in connection with the white Volkswagen Golf 141-SO-909 to come forward – this car was taken during the course of a Burglary of a dwelling in the Tallaght area on the 15 January 2021. The car left the scene of the Robbery at KFC and collided at the junction of the Nangor Road and Fonthill Road while escaping. We would appeal to anyone with any information on this vehicle and its whereabouts during the period between when it was stolen and used during this robbery.  
• Anyone who can provide any information as to the identity of the two men involved or any information that may progress the investigation.
• Anyone with any information, in relation to the preparation and knowledge acquired by the suspects in the days and weeks prior to the commission of this crime, to come forward and assist An Garda Síochána with their enquiries. 

Gardaí at Clondalkin Garda Station, investigating.  Tel: 01-6667600

Gardaí at Coolock Garda station are investigating a robbery that occurred on 24th March 2021 at approximately 21:38pm at Spar, Mornington Park, Malahide Road, Artane. 

Circumstances 

On the date in question, two males walked outbound from the city centre direction and entered the Spar shop on Malahide Road, Artane.  One of the suspects dropped a glove going into the shop.  On entering the shop the two suspects both produced chisels.  One of the suspects went behind the till area, waiving the chisel at the member of staff and demanding cash.  He demanded a bag from the staff member and subsequently emptied the till contents into it.  

The second suspect stayed at the customer side of the tills, also waiving a chisel, and demanding cash and cigarettes.  He put the cigarettes that were handed to him from the staff member, into a bag that he had brought with him. 

The first suspect left the shop picking up the second suspects glove outside.  The second suspect followed shortly after him. The two leave the shop area and run up the Malahide road in the direction of Artane.  

Description of Suspect 1 

Male, average height, stockier of the two suspects.  He wore a black jacket with a green / yellow top underneath, dark bottoms, black runners, black face covering and grey and black gardening gloves. 

Description of Suspect 2 

Male, slimmer than the first suspect.  Short in height.  Wearing a navy full zip up top with a white logo on the left breast, black gloves, navy stone wash jeans, a black woolly hat with an emblem on the centre.  He was wearing tights over his face.  He was carrying a cream shopping bag. 

Weapons Used 

Both suspects entered the Spar shop carrying wood chisels. 

Garda Appeal:

• Where you in the vicinity of the Malahide Road, Artane between the times of 21:00 and 22:00 on the 24/03/2021 and noticed any unusual or suspicious behaviour by any persons or vehicles.
• Did you attend Spar, Malahide Road, Artane between the time of 21:30 and 22:00.
• Where you in the area of Old Yellow Walls Road and Estuary Road, Malahide between the times of 20:30 and 21:30 on the 24/03/2021.Did you notice any suspicious person(s) or vehicle(s). Gardaí believe that both suspects may have been here prior to arriving at Artane, and used public transport, (buses or taxis).
• Do you have any information in relation to the incident? 

Gardaí at Coolock Garda Station investigating Tel: 01-6664200

Gardaí at Balbriggan Garda Station are investigating an Assault Causing Harm that took place at Balbriggan Football Club grounds on Bath Road on 15 January 2021.  

On the date in question at approximately 6pm, the victim went out walking from her home.  She went to the locality of Balbriggan Football Club towards the Astro Turf football pitch.  She then went under a tunnel around Bremore Castle and back down by Balbriggan Football Club in the direction of the beach. 

At one stage the victim passed a number of teenagers described as being in their late teens.  She was wearing ear phones at the time and didn’t hear any noises behind her. 

At approximately 6.10pm, the victim was hit on the top of her head by possibly a fist and pushed to the ground. 

The victim was kicked and punched and her clothing on her right thigh was cut resulting in her leg being wounded. There were three male suspects involved, who left the scene in the direction of Bremore Castle.  

Description of Suspects 

Suspect 1         -     Black, male in his late teens, approximately 5'1"0 in height.

• - Dark Grey Tracksuit bottoms and black jacket.
• - Face covering.
• - This male was carrying a knife with a black handle. This blade is described as 5 inches in length and an inch in width that came to a point. 

Suspect 2         -     Male in his late teens, approximately 5'10" in height, slim build.

• - North Face Black Jacket, all black clothing. 

Suspect 3         -     Male in his late teens, approximately 5'10" in height.

• - Wearing all black clothing.
• - Wearing White Air Force One runners.

Garda Appeal: 

• Where you in the area and did you see these individuals coming to or from the scene?
• Do you have any information that may assist the investigation?
• Were you driving in the area and do you have Dash cam footage
• Direct appeal to the males sought in connection with the assault to come forward. 

Balbriggan Garda Station investigating Tel: (01) 8010510

On this month’s Traffic Segment Garda Adrian Corcoran highlighted the increased presence of agricultural vehicles on our roads during the current silage cutting season.

Garda Corcoran listed a number of signs that may alert you to the presence of large agricultural vehicles in the area. Road users should pay particular attention to these signs during the months of May, June and July when there is an increased chance of collisions involving agricultural vehicles. 

The signs include: 

• ⮚ Mud or grass on the road close to gateways or farmyards
• ⮚ Traffic cones or signs on the side of the road at entrances to fields or farmyards
• ⮚ Flashing beacons which may be visible across hedge rows before the tractor comes into sight 

Garda Corcoran encouraged all road users to be careful at this time of year including those walking, cycling, horse riding or on holiday in Ireland. He made the point that sharing the road requires full concentration at all times, but especially at this very busy time of year for the farming community. Lastly he emphasized that by working together we can support and help each other with patience, tolerance and adherence to key road safety guidelines, which include but are not limited to: 

• Keeping 100% Concentration
• Using Restraint
• Holding Back
• Overtaking safely
• Not putting themselves in danger to get photos for social media

On this month’s Traffic segment Garda Adrian Corcoran was in studio to talk about staycations, summer traffic and the correct procedure for checking and ensuring the safety of your vehicle before travelling on your holiday. 

Garda Corcoran talked about the importance of carrying out a thorough check on your vehicle before undertaking any long trips. He also gave advice on the correct procedure when attaching and towing a caravan. 

He spoke about driver fatigue and offered tips on how to avoid getting tired at the wheel. He reminded viewers that it is estimated that driver fatigue is a contributory factor in as many as 1 in 5 driver deaths in Ireland each year. 

It’s anticipated that roads around beaches, beauty spots, walking trails and tourist attractions will be extremely busy this summer. Garda Corcoran asked people when visiting the above mentioned areas to please park their vehicle legally and responsibly. There have been a number of incidents recently where emergency vehicles were hampered as they attended people in need because of illegally parked cars. 

Finally Garda Corcoran provided figures on road collisions for this period last year. This time last year from 22 June to 28 September there were 41 Fatal Collisions and 320 Serious Injury Collisions. 8 of those fatalities were motorcyclists. 

Garda Corcoran appealed to the public to stay safe and enjoy the summer and thanked them for their continued support in making the roads a safer place for all.

On this month’s traffic segment Crimecall went on patrol with Garda Adrian Corcoran and Gardaí from the Blanchardstown Divisional Roads Policing Unit and the Road Safety Association (RSA) as part of Tyre Safety Day (Wednesday 6 October 2021). 

Crimecall accompanied Gardaí as they carried out visual inspections on both domestic and commercial vehicles, while the RSA inspected heavy goods vehicles for tyre safety. 

Gardaí offered valuable advice concerning proper tyre safety, highlighting the main defects and warning signs when carrying out a tyre check. 

These include:

• - Over and under inflation of the tyre via pressure checks
• - Tyre tread depth checks and
• - Excessively worn / bald / cut or bulging defective tyres 

Gardaí reminded the public that they should always check the Tyre Manufacture Date Stamp when buying a second-hand car. If a tyre is over ten years old it will fail the NCT and if it is over six years old it qualifies as an advisory.    

Gardaí also conducted a series of tests to highlight the breaking stopping difference(s) between defective and legal tyres. 

Also on this month’s traffic segment Garda Adrian Corcoran outlined ‘Winter Ready’ advice to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians for travelling safely during the winter months. 

Winter Advice

For pedestrians and cyclists;

• - To be safe during winter months you must be seen. Ensure you have lights on your bicycle are that they are working correctly.
• - Pedestrians should carry a torch when walking during hours of darkness.
• - A Hi-Viz jacket is an essential piece of clothing which will make you more visible to other roads users.
• - Plan your route before your walk. Use footpaths where provided, if there is no footpath walk facing oncoming traffic and never walk on dual carriageways and motorways. Use pedestrian crossings when provided. 

Vehicle Advice

It’s so important to ensure that your vehicle is ‘winter ready’ and there are some checks you can carry out yourself as winter approaches;

• - Make sure all your lights are clean and in working order. It’s a good idea to drive using dipped headlights during winter even during the day as it increases your visibility to other road users.
• - Check coolant level and washer bottle. Add winter screen wash which will prevent washer jets from freezing.
• - Check oil levels and top up if necessary.
• - Check wiper blades for cracks or damage and replace if necessary.
• - Check tyres. Ensure they have adequate tread depth and are inflated to the correct pressure

On this month’s Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran and Garda Lyn Connaugton of the Roads Policing unit highlighted the dangers of “distracted driving”.

The Crimecall team filmed on location with Garda Lyn Connaughton who is a trained Forensic Collision Investigator. Lyn talked about her experience of attending scenes of serious injury collisions some of which have resulted in fatalities.

Dublin Fire Brigade were on hand to illustrate and raise awareness about the serious consequences these collisions have on victims and their families. 

In the first two months of 2021 Gardaí issued 3041 fines to drivers for holding a mobile phone while driving. Now while this is down 39% on the same period last year this figure is still worryingly high when you consider we were in stage (5) lockdown for the duration of this period meaning greatly reduced volumes of traffic on our roads. 

Adrian gave the following key advice: 

Drivers on mobile phones continue to be a huge problem on our roads. Statistics show that making a call makes a driver four times more likely to be involved in a collision and texting makes a driver 23 times more likely to be involved in a collision. Research shows that if you drive and use your mobile phone (hand-held or hands-free) it will hinder your driving in different ways. It makes it harder for you to:

• Keep in lane
• Drive at the right speed
• Keep a good distance from the car in front
• Judge safe gaps in traffic 

Driver distraction is a diversion of attention away from activities critical for safe driving toward a competing activity. It is estimated that driver distraction could play a role in 20-30% of all road collisions in this country. 

Garda Corcoran also highlighted the other potential distractions to drivers including having children in the car and using satellite navigation systems. Finally Garda Corcoran outlined the penalties for anyone caught driving in a distracted manner.

On this month’s Crimecall we went on patrol with Garda Adrian Corcoran and the Roads policing Unit, based at Navan. The central message being, to encourage all drivers to secure their load.

The Crimecall team filmed Gardaí as they conducted check points encountering different traffic infringements including unsecure loads across a range of different vehicle types, both domestic and commercial. 

Inspectors from The Roads safety Authority took part in the operation and conducted inspections of a variety of vehicles that resulted in a defective vehicle being prevented from proceeding any further and a decision to take it off the road.

On this month’s Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran was in studio to discuss motorcycle safety. He offered the following advice to motorcyclists in relation to returning to the roads for the summer months ahead: 

• Getting the bike road-ready after having been parked up for months.
• Doing necessary checks (chain, oil, brakes, lights) which may require the expertise of a mechanic.
• Helmet safety standards (what ‘mark of approval’ to look for when buying a good quality helmet).
• Getting yourself ‘road-ready’ when returning to biking. It is important to ease yourself back in gently.
• Protective gear such as long sleeves and proper footwear which motorcyclists need to wear at all times. 

While statistically the danger times are at weekends and Sunday, motorcyclists should exercise caution and slow down at all times.

On this month’s Crimecal Garda Adrian Corcoran was in studio to provide information on the Christmas and New Year Enforcement Campaign. The campaign is operational from 1 December 2021 until 5 January 2022, focusing on drink and drug driving. 

Unfortunately, there is still a cohort of people who continue to flout the rules and have continued to drive while under the influence. Because of this Roads Policing Units will continue to conduct nationwide checkpoints throughout the Christmas period and into the New Year. 

Garda Corcoran appealed to people to plan ahead and use public transport or nominate a designated driver when travelling anywhere over the Christmas period. 

Garda Corcoran also offered viewers advice for driving in Severe Weather Conditions.

• - He explained that during heavy rain visibility is greatly reduced so drivers should always use dipped headlights and allow adequate space between them and the vehicle in front. Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces visibility. So hold back to where you can see their mirrors.
• - After heavy rain it can take some time for the rain water to drain away. Don’t drive through flooded roads, it could be deeper than you think and there could be debris under the water which could cause damage to your vehicle. Choose an alternative route.
• - When driving in strong winds the stability of your vehicle may be affected. Trucks, buses and motorcycles are especially at risk. Take extra care on motorways and faster roads as cross winds can cause your vehicle to go off course. Reduce your speed and keep your distance from the vehicle in front.
• - Scan the road ahead for debris and if you come across debris contact the Gardaí immediately. Falling power lines can often be live and should never be approached. 

Finally Garda Corcoran asked that people make sure larger items such as trampolines are secured or taken in doors during the winter months in case there are any high winds or stormy periods. He also asked farmers and owners of commercial properties to check buildings for damage to roofs which could be blown onto roads during further storms this winter. 

This month on Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran was in studio to talk about An Garda Siochána’s Christmas and New Year Enforcement Campaign 2021 which will commence on the 1 December and will continue right through to the 5 January 2022.

The operation will focus on drink and drug driving. It will see an increase in enforcement in terms of mandatory intoxicant testing checkpoints which are checkpoints where Gardai have the power to test drivers for the presence of alcohol and drugs.

During the Enforcement Campaign for the Christmas period in 2020 there were 567 people arrested for drink driving and 225 people arrested for drug driving.

There were 23 people arrested on Christmas Eve and 15 arrested on Christmas Day so our Roads Policing members will be out there every day over the Christmas period posting checkpoints throughout the country.

The number of people arrested for drug driving in 2020 was double the number arrested for the same period in 2019. This year has seen this trend continue with almost 3000 people arrested so far since 1st January on suspicion of drug driving.

Since April 2017 Gardai have the power to carry out roadside drug testing. This is done by analysing a saliva sample at the roadside and if it shows the presence of drugs the person will then be arrested and taken to a Garda station where they will be required to provide a blood sample. This is then sent to the Medical Bureau of Road Safety where it is analysed and it is the result of this examination that is used by Gardai as evidence in court. 

Figures show that over 3600 people have been arrested on suspicion of drink driving since the 1st January this year. Penalties for drink driving range from 3 months to 6 years disqualification, a fine of up to €5000 or 6 months imprisonment. Alcohol is a factor in 38% of all fatal crashes.

Garda Corcoran asked people going out socialising this Christmas to plan ahead. Leave the car at home and arrange an alternative mode of transport to take you home. People should also be mindful of driving the next morning after a night out. Make sure enough time has elapsed to allow the alcohol to pass through your system.

Appeal

• Never, ever Drink/Drug drive
• Book a taxi or use public transport
• Nominate a Designated Driver
• Make sure you are Alcohol free the next morning

On this month’s Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran was in studio to deliver a road safety message in relation to the loss of life on our roads and the contributing four Lifesaver Offences.

Adrian highlighted that so far this year there have been 102 fatalities, which indicate an increase on the previous two years. Since the June 28th Crimecall programme 45 people have lost their lives.

While deaths fell in most European countries due to the Covid 19 pandemic, unfortunately Ireland has shown an increase, which is of great concern to us.

The majority of drivers show a high level of compliance with road traffic legislation and speed limits and we thank them for their continued efforts in making our roads safer. But we still have a minority of drivers who continue to flout road traffic legislation.

We refer to the four offences which contribute most to road traffic collisions as ‘Lifesaver Offences’

These four lifesaver offences are namely;

• Ø Driving under the influence of drink / drugs
• Ø Speeding
• Ø Holding a mobile phone while driving
• Ø Non wearing of seat belts 

Driving under the influence (DUI)

So far this year 2,711 people have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and 2,403 people have been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.

There has been an alarming number of people arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs over the past 18 months. This is a growing concern which is affecting people from all walks of life in our society.

With the easing of restrictions over the coming weeks we are expecting the numbers of people socialising to increase greatly. With this in mind we would like to remind people to never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

Appeal

• o Never, ever drink / drug drive
• o Book a taxi or use public transport
• o Nominate a ‘designated driver’
• o Make sure you are alcohol free the next morning 

Speeding

So far this year 105,691 fines have been issued to drivers for driving above the speed limit.

Speeding is the biggest contributing factor to road deaths in Ireland. It’s a factor in one third of all fatal collisions.

Speeding in urban areas puts our most vulnerable road users, pedestrians and cyclists at risk. If a pedestrian is hit at 50kmph, they have a 50% chance of living, but hit at 60kmph and the chances drops to just 10%.

The higher the speed, the greater the likelihood of a collision happening. We are asking people to slow down and always drive within the speed limits. 

Mobile Phones

So far this year 14,810 people have been issued fines for holding a mobile phone while driving.

Statistics show that making a call makes a driver 4 times more likely to be involved in a collision and texting makes a driver a staggering 23 times more likely to be involved in a collision.

Simply holding a mobile phone in your hand is an offence, you don’t have to be on a call.

Hands free or Bluetooth systems can be just as distracting as holding a phone. If using one of these systems, it should be done through voice commands or with the buttons on the steering wheel and calls should be kept as short as possible. 

Seat Belts

So far this year 4,811 fines have been issued to people not wearing seat belts.

1 in 5 people killed on our roads were not wearing a seat belt.

Our advice is to everyone, whether driving or a passenger, please ensure that you are wearing your seat belt before you set off.

Seat belts dramatically reduce the risk of death and serious injury in the event of a collision.

We would also ask people to make sure children are restrained correctly in an appropriate restraint. Information on this can be found on the RSA website. 

Conclusion

These four lifesaver offences are a contributing factor in most fatal collisions in Ireland. We are asking people to never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, always drive within the speed limits, never use your mobile phone while driving and always wear your seat belt. Small changes in people’s behaviour can make the roads safer for all its users.

On this month’s Crimecall Garda Adrian Corcoran joined us from the Roads Policing Unit with some traffic advice for all motorists in relation to the following:

Review of 2020 Road Deaths

During 2020, there were 148 fatalities on Irish roads which is up from 140 on 2019, an increase of 8 deaths.

· These figures are very disappointing, especially considering traffic volumes were reduced by as much as 70% in 2020 due to the Covid 19 pandemic.
· Passengers represent the biggest increase with 26 losing their lives in fatal collisions, up 70% on 2019 figures.
· Reminder to passengers, both front and rear seat to wear seat belts.

With rush hour traffic less than normal, we are urging drivers to be on the lookout for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, whose numbers increased during lock downs.

· It’s up to everybody to ensure the roads are safer in 2021 and road deaths are reduced:

+ Slow down
+ Wear your Seat Belt
+ Never use a mobile phone while driving
+ Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Clancy Amendment
• The Clancy Amendment was introduced in memory of Cork man Noel Clancy’s wife Geraldine and daughter Louise, who were killed in a collision with an unaccompanied learner driver.

• It was introduced in December 2018 and gave Gardaí the power to seize vehicles driven by unaccompanied learner drivers. The legislation also enables the prosecution of vehicle owners who allow their vehicles to be driven by unaccompanied learners.
Since December 2018

• 5,927 vehicles seized from unaccompanied drivers
• 18,017 FCN’s for driving unaccompanied
• Over 35,000 drivers-on fourth or subsequent learner permit
• 6,500 drivers- on eleventh or subsequent learner permit

Current Rules- L-Drivers

• Category B learner permit is NOT a full driving licence.
• Must have someone with a full driving licence
• Display L-plates on the front and rear of the car.
• Do not drive on a motorway.
• Do not draw a trailer.

Advice During Bad Weather

• There have been a number of cars stolen in recent weeks while people left the engine running to defrost the car while they returned to their house. If you are defrosting your car you should remain inside the car or use water or a defrosting agent.

Gardaí at Ennistymon Garda Station are investigating three separate incidents involving the discovery of unidentified human remains off the Cliffs of Moher.

Incident 1: On the 30th July 2010 the Irish Coast Guard based at Doolin recovered the remains of an unknown male. The search team believed the body may have been in the water for approximately ten days. The body was badly decomposed and eventually removed to Limerick Regional Hospital.

No distinguishing features were found on the body and the only items of clothing recovered were socks and shoes, images of which are reproduced below.

Black shoesand socks

On the 13th August 2014, an orthodontist who examined the teeth expressed an opinion that there had been some dental work carried out, most likely in mainland Europe. Body samples were taken and a DNA profile of the deceased was circulated through Interpol with a view to establishing the identity of the body. To date this has been unsuccessful.

A post mortem examination carried out on the 2nd September 2014 indicated that the body was that of a white, adult male. The man was 5’ 10” in height with dark hair and a short dark moustache and beard. There were no tattoos or scars visible on the body.

The County Coroner arranged for scans of the body to be forwarded to the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification at the University of Dundee for craniofacial reconstruction. The resultant images (see above) were then circulated throughout Europe in an effort to identify the deceased but to date there has been no positive identification. 

Incident 2: On 14th August 2016 human remains believed to be that of a female were discovered at Doonagore, Doolin by the Burren sub aqua unit who were training in the area.

The remains were then recovered by the Irish Coast Guard and transferred to Limerick mortuary for a post mortem examination. A DNA profile was created and circulated through Interpol with a view to establishing the identity of the body but to date this has been unsuccessful.

The only details that may assist in identifying the female relate to clothing recovered with the remains.

Details of clothing:

Partial clothing on the body included what appeared to be denim jeans bearing the label Esmara, and another item of clothing which was purple in colour bearing a tag with 40/42 size on it. Esmara clothing label is sometimes carried by Lidl. A black belt with woven pattern was recovered and is reproduced below.

Incident 3: On October 4th 2018, shortly before 5pm humans remains believed to be that of a female were discovered in the water off the Cliffs of Moher.

The Irish Coast Guard recovered the remains and transferred them to Limerick mortuary for a post mortem examination. A DNA sample was taken in order to establish a match but as of yet no match has been found. 

The Coroner was however able to establish a description of the female which is as follows: 

• Asian female  5’8’’ in height
• Slim build
• Age estimated 50 – 55 years
• No tattoos, but with one vertical scar on the midriff.

In addition to this description there were also a number of jewellery items found on the body, images of which are reproduced below. 

Gold ring with the words “Caby” on the inside AND gold ring with green stones

Gold Bracelet AND discoloured gold ring comprising of non-uniform circular segments

Garda appeal:

Gardaí are appealing for the public's assistance to identify these individuals. So if you think you may know their identity or can assist in any way, please do so. 

Gardaí Ennistymon Garda Station are investigating tel: 0657072180

Gardaí at Trim station are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the body of a man found at a former council yard at Bracetown, Ratoath, Co. Meath on the 18 April 1991.

The remains of the deceased man were found by council workers in the early morning as they began work for the day. The workers informed the authorities and upon investigation it was established that the man’s death wasn’t suspicious nor was there any foul play suspected. 

Unfortunately the man did not have any documentation that would allow for his identification. Sergeant Alan Dowley, (Retired), led the investigation to identify the deceased man and return him to family and loved ones. Unfortunately the man’s identity was not established and he was buried at a St. Mary’s cemetery at Navan, Co Meath. 

A fresh review of the case was conducted by Gardai in early 2021 which led to an exhumation being performed last August, in the hope of retrieving a DNA profile for comparison. Unfortunately, a DNA sample could not be generated. Numerous witnesses were re-interviewed but despite extensive efforts made by local Gardaí in conjunction with the Garda Missing Persons Bureau, the man has still not been identified. 

A portrait artist was subsequently tasked with producing a sketch of the man’s face based on photographs taken at the time. The man is described as follows: 

• Approx. 5’5 in height
• Approx. 45 to 55 years old
• Medium Build
• Approx. 8st to 10st Weight
• Light Brown Hair, receding on Forehead and grey on sides
• Brown Eyes 

Clothing;

• Grey Herringbone Tweed Jacket
• Label ‘Taldy Madrid’
• White ‘Luigi Rossi’ Shirt
• A red vest
• Grey Trousers with ‘C&A Label (Size 46)
• Black Leather Zip Up Boots (Size 8)
• 20 Pence in coins in Pocket with a St Christopher Medal 

Garda Appeal: 

• This is not a criminal investigation – It is to identify this man and notify his loved ones
• Body exhumed from the cemetery in Navan on 25/8/21, whilst Gardaí have so far been unable to generate a DNA sample, it was established that the deceased may have had an issue with his right knee which may have caused him pain or discomfort and he may have had a limp.
• He may be either Irish or from the UK. Interviews taken during the course of the investigation suggest that he may have been from Liverpool or Scotland but Gardaí are keeping an open mind on this.
• It maybe that something brought him to this area, be it a family member or childhood connection.
• Gardaí also believe that he may have been in the area sleeping rough for up to a week prior to being discovered. 

Trim Garda Station, investigating tel: (046) 948 1540