Firearm aimed at gardaí during attempted arrest in Dublin

Updated / Saturday, 31 Oct 2026 12:40

An investigation is under way after a gun was pointed at gardaí, including a trainee garda, as they tried to carry out an arrest in Dublin.

A preliminary examination of a magazine recovered from the weapon indicates it was from a "realistic imitation firearm", gardaí said.

Shortly before 5am this morning, gardaí on patrol in Abbey Street in the city centre saw a cyclist acting suspiciously, who then fled when they attempted to speak to him.

He was pursued by two uniformed garda and a trainee garda.

As they attempted to stop the cyclist, one of the gardaí was assaulted, and slightly injured.

Gardaí say the suspect then produced a firearm and aimed it at the three gardaí, forcing them to seek cover.

He then threw the weapon into the River Liffey, before fleeing the scene.

Searches of the area and the river are ongoing to recover the firearm.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly said the incident "demonstrates once again the potential dangers that our members face every day they put on their uniform and go out to work."

Gardaí are appealing to any witnesses to come forward.

They are also appealing to anyone with camera footage - including motorists with dash-cam footage - who were in the areas of Abbey Street, Jervis Street, the Quays and Temple Bar between 4.45am and 5.15am to contact Store Street Garda Station on 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.