Gardaí investigating 'malicious' WhatsApp messages about female members

WhatsApp is prohibited to gardaí in relation to work matters. File photo

The widespread circulation of "false, inappropriate, unacceptable, and malicious" WhatsApp messages about two serving female gardaí from fellow members is being investigated, senior management has confirmed.

Deputy Commissioner for Policing and Security, Anne Marie McMahon, told the Policing Authority that An Garda Síochána was "taking very seriously" the "abhorrent" text messages circulating on garda-issued phones, despite WhatsApp being prohibited in relation to work matters.