Man arrested after online threats to ‘kill children and babies' sparks school alert
The suspect, who is aged in his 40s, is now in custody, gardaí have confirmed.
A man is in garda custody after a series of disturbing threats to 'kill children and babies' were posted online, sparking a school alert.
A 'highly disturbing' video was posted in recent days, featuring chilling threats about alleged plans to target young children.
After his video was widely shared online, a group of local people 'descended' upon the man, who is in his 40s and was living in an encampment off the M4 motorway. This group 'broke up his encampment', sources say.
The suspect, who is aged in his 40s, was not injured during this fracas. But the man fled the area before re-emerging in Tallaght.
It is believed he posted another video, shared on TikTok, from Tallaght Square.
Stock image
News in 90 Seconds - May 28th
The man apparently walked from Tallaght to Abbeyleix in Laois.
At this stage, a local primary school had put out an alert, given the grave nature of the threats being issued against children.
A Precaution Notice sent out to the school community by Principal of Scoil Mhuire Margaret Slevin at 9.46am on Wednesday stated: 'Dear Parent/Guardian, We are aware of rumours circulating in Abbeyleix this morning.
"Please be reassured that we are doing everything in our power to keep the children and staff safe. Everyone will remain indoors today or until we hear otherwise. Thank you for your co-operation with this matter.'
It is understood that the man now in custody was never in the vicinity of the school.
Gardai also confirmed a major investigation into the incident, as well as the suspect's arrest.
A statement said: 'Gardaí investigating alleged threats shared online have arrested one male in Abbeyleix, Co. Laois this morning, Wednesday 28th May 2025.
'The arrested male is currently detained at a Garda Station in the Eastern Region under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984.
'There is no ongoing threat to public safety at this time. As a person is now in custody there is no further comment at this time.'
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