Young garda injured when confronted by 'aggressive' serial offender

The suspect is originally from the Cork area. File picture: Dan Linehan

A young garda suffered injuries when confronted by an “aggressive” serial offender, armed with a kitchen knife, when he responded to a burglary call-out in Dublin.

The garda received cuts to his fingers during the incident, believed to have happened in the course of himself and a fellow garda arresting the suspect.

It is understood the burglar was intoxicated at the time and has a significant number of charges and previous convictions, mostly for theft, burglary, public order and drunkenness.

The 38-year-old man is originally thought to be from Waterford city and is believed to spend most of his time between there and addresses in Dublin. He also had addresses in other parts of the country, including Louth and, around 10 years ago, on the northside of Cork.

The garda, aged in his 20s, was brought to James Connolly Hospital where his wounds were treated and subsequently discharged.

A spokesperson said gardaí attached to Blanchardstown Garda Station responded to the incident at approximately 3.45am on Thursday at a business premises in Dublin 15.

"At the scene, it was apparent to both gardaí that a burglary had occurred and they called colleagues by radio for assistance.

"As they searched the premises, they encountered a male in possession of a bladed weapon who became aggressive and threatening. One male garda sustained injuries."

"His injuries are not life-threatening. Garda welfare services have been made available to the Garda," added the spokesperson

A bladed weapon was seized at the scene along with €1,500 in cash.

The investigation is ongoing, gardaí said.

Garda Representative Association (GRA) representative for Dublin West Detective Garda Mark Ferris commended his colleagues "for their courage and professionalism in the face of such adversity."

“It is with real concern that we acknowledge yet another incident in which a young garda was assaulted while carrying out their duties, this time during the arrest of an individual in possession of a knife in Blanchardstown," Mr Ferris said.

"The male garda received medical attention at Connolly Hospital and has since been discharged following treatment.

"Attacks on members of An Garda Síochána are entirely unacceptable, and sadly, becoming far too common. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks our members face daily while carrying out their work.”