Investigation Launched Into Serious Assault on Garda in Cavan

Gardaí are investigating a "serious and concerning attack" on one of their members in Co. Cavan this morning.

The garda was discovered by colleagues in an injured and disoriented state. He was covered in a flammable substance.

The garda is believed to have been attacked while on patrol Loughan, Blacklion area of Co Cavan at approximately 2am.

He was described as being "disorientated and unable to explain the exact circumstances of events taking place" when he was found by colleagues who located him using the garda AVPLS system.

"The members found their colleague in a disorientated state," a statement from An Garda Síochána said. "His official marked patrol vehicle was present at the scene. There was a strong smell of an accelerant in the air, his Garda uniform was saturated with an accelerant and he had signs of physical injuries."

The garda is currently receiving treatment for non-life threatening injuries at Sligo University Hospital.

"This is a very serious and concerning attack on an unarmed member of An Garda Síochána going about their normal duties keeping people safe," said a garda spokesperson. "Thankfully the incident has not resulted in a fatality or other serious injury. The exact motive for this attack is yet to be determined but it is extremely concerning that a member of An Garda Síochána appears to have been targeted and doused in some form of accelerant, the exact intent of this attack is unknown at this time. I am appealing for any person with any information on this attack to contact investigating Gardaí."

Anyone with information should contact Cavan Garda Station at 049 4368800, the Garda Confidential Phone Number 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.