Gardaí investigate alleged sex attacks on teenage girls in Sligo

A number of scenes have been sealed off while the investigation gets under way

A number of scenes have been sealed off while the investigation gets underway. Pictures: James Connolly

Gardaí in Sligo are appealing for witnesses to come forward in relation to a number of alleged sexual assaults on teenage girls  on Saturday night.

It is understood that the girls had been out socialising on Saturday evening and the alleged attacks took place between 8pm and 10pm.

Two scenes have been sealed off for forensic examination while a Garda investigation gets underway -  St Mary’s GAA grounds on the Ballydoogan Road and a nearby house.

Detectives are appealing to anyone who was in the Ballydoogan, Oakfield and Maugheraboy areas of Sligo between 8pm and 10pm and who noticed any activity which caught their attention to contact them.

Taxi drivers who were working at the time and who may have taken a fare from Sligo to Manorhamilton have also been asked to come forward.

Local politicians have reacted with shock to the news. 

Local independent Councillor Declan Bree told The Irish Examiner he blieves the public will co-operate ‘to the fullest extent’ with the ongoing Garda investigation.

"Most people in the community are sickened especially given the tragedy in Offaly last week. People are shocked and angry. I feel that the Gardaí will get 100% cent co-operation from the community and any member of the public who might have seen something,’ said Cllr Bree.

Local Fianna Fáil Councillor Rosaleen O’Grady spoke of her shock that an alleged sexual assault would have taken place at St Mary’s GAA pitches, a place she described as being "at the heart of the community for generations". 

‘I’m shocked and saddened that the Gardaí are investigating an alleged sexual assault on two teenagers in our area, in a week when women’s safety has been to the fore. It’s unbelievable,’ she said.

"I’m appealing to anybody who may have information that they would assist the Gardaí in their investigation. St Mary’s for us is family time. We all have happy memories of great days there. It’s the heartbeat of so many generations over the years,” she added.

A spokesperson for St Mary's GAA club told The Irish Examiner that the club couldn't comment  on the alleged incident while it is an ongoing investigation.

Gardaí in Sligo refused to be drawn on whether they had identified one or more suspects and repeated their appeal for witnesses in relation to the alleged assaults to come forward.

They are appealing to any road users who may have been travelling through these areas and who may have dash-cam footage to contact gardaí.

Gardai said that the alleged assaults happened near Sligo on Saturday evening.

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Anyone with any information in relation to this matter is asked to contact Sligo Garda Station on 071 915700, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

"Investigations are ongoing," it was added.