Hoax call amid search for students in Limerick

A hoax call that led to a search and rescue mission on the River Shannon has been roundly criticised by Limerick Marine Search and Rescue.

A male caller rang emergency services at about 7.05pm yesterday alleging that a woman had jumped into the river.

Emergency workers attached to the search and marine service, gardaí, Limerick fire service, and the Coast Guard rescue helicopter, were dispatched.

Peter Hogan, PRO with Limerick Marine Search and Rescue, described it as a “disgrace” and said: “We are currently searching for two other missing students and our resources are stretched.”

Mr Hogan said they sent about 16 crew to the scene on foot of the bogus call.

Meanwhile, concerns are growing for the safety of the two missing students.

Tullamore native and NUIG student Mark Casey, 19, was last seen leaving Angel Lane nightclub at Robert St at around 1.30am on Friday.

Separately, searches are continuing for LIT student Steven Cavanagh, 21, who has not been seen since around 2.30am on Thursday.