1,000 domestic abuse reports made to gardaí every week last year

Over 1,000 domestic abuse reports were made every week last year to gardaí

Reports of domestic abuse have surged by 10% so far this year, as An Garda Síochána urged victims to come forward and report what it described as a “hidden crime”.

Marking Go Purple Day, an initiative led by An Garda Síochána, gardaí said more than 1,000 domestic abuse reports were made every week last year as the force reiterated its commitment to supporting victims nationwide.

In the first four months of 2026, more than 17,900 incidents of domestic abuse were reported across the country.

During the same period, 920 arrests linked to domestic abuse were made, representing a further 10% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

In addition, 52 incidents of coercive control have been reported so far this year.

Separate statistics indicate that one in five domestic abuse incidents reported between 2022 and 2025 involved a male victim, while one in eight involved a child victim.

“Unfortunately, domestic abuse continues to have a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities throughout Ireland,” assistant commissioner for organised and serious crime Angela Willis said.

“It can be happening behind closed doors, and in the case of coercive control it can be occurring in plain sight. Those experiencing this form of abuse are very often isolated, cut off from support networks, leaving them feeling vulnerable, fearful and unable to advocate for themselves.” 

To mark the awareness day, gardaí and members of the public were encouraged to show support by “going purple” through clothing choices, home decorations, and social media posts.

Buildings across Ireland are also being illuminated in purple, including Garda Headquarters, National Museum of Ireland, National Library of Ireland, Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle, National Concert Hall, and Collins Barracks, alongside several Government buildings and garda stations.

Ms Willis added: “Very often, Gardaí are meeting people at the most difficult moments in their lives. They are responding to incidents in highly emotional and traumatic circumstances. They are supporting victims and families, whilst also investigating offences and pursuing perpetrators.

“They are working closely with support services and community organisations to ensure victims receive the help and protection they need. This is difficult and challenging work, but it is vitally important work. It is also work that An Garda Síochána takes very seriously.”