GSOC leads probes into garda machinegun incident

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC)  has launched an investigation into the temporary loss of a Garda sub-machine gun and ammunition, citing reports of an “apparent lack of security” in the incident.

GSOC said an independent investigation was “necessary to ensure public confidence” in policing oversight at a time of increased armed gardai in Dublin in particular.

The Policing Authority and the Minister for Justice have also expressed serious concern and are to be briefed on an internal Garda investigation already underway.