‘Firearm’ aimed at gardai in Dublin
It came as a cyclist was being pursued by two gardai in Dublin city centre in the early hours of Saturday.
An object that appeared to be a firearm was aimed at Gardaí during a pursuit of a fleeing cyclist.
It happened in the Abbey Street area of Dublin city centre in the early hours of Saturday.
A Garda spokesperson said a male cyclist was observed “acting suspiciously”.
“When Gardaí attempted to engage with him, the cyclist fled and was pursued by two uniformed Gardaí and a trainee Garda,” they said.
“Having apprehended the individual, a struggle broke out during which one of the Gardaí was assaulted, receiving minor injuries. In the course of the altercation, the suspect produced a firearm and aimed it at the Gardaí, forcing them to seek cover.
“The male subsequently discarded the firearm into the River Liffey as he fled from the scene.”
They said a magazine from the weapon has been sent for forensic examination, but that a preliminary examination indicates it is a realistic imitation firearm”.
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly commended the bravery of the Gardaí involved.
“This incident demonstrates once again the potential dangers that our members face every day they put on their uniform and go out to work,” he said.
“It is also another in a long line of examples of how Gardaí regularly go above and beyond in fulfilling our mission of keeping people safe.”
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Store Street Garda Station on 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.