Six freed as gardaí probe theft of casino winnings

Six people arrested in connection with an aggravated assault during which a man was robbed of casino winnings have been released without charge.

A Garda spokesman said a file is being prepared for the DPP over the incident in Limerick. Three men and three women were arrested.

Around €7,000 taken from the victim has not been recovered.

Two vehicles seized by gardaí at Bohermore on the outskirts of Limerick City are still impounded.

The victim, an Asian-born businessman living in Kerry, had a successful Tuesday night session at the tables in Fitzpatrick’s casino on Limerick’s Glentworth St.

On leaving the casino at around 1.15am he was on the N20 southbound lane when two vehicles, a silver Ford and a black people carrier, sped up and forced his car off the road.

Two men in balaclavas then ran to his car and put a knife to his throat demanding his night’s winnings. During the encounter the victim was struck.

The gang then sped off with the victim’s winnings, believed to be about €7,000.

A passing motorists went to the victim’s assistance and he was taken to Limerick University Hospital and treated for superficial wounds.

Gardaí suspect a gang associate was in the casino when the businessman had his win and contacted associates who carried out the robbery.

Gardaí have viewed relevant CCTV material.