Breaking: Gardai investigate violent scenes at U14 boxing tournament in Roscommon

IABA labels the incident 'abhorrent' and says it will co-operate with a Garda probe in every way possible

VIOLENT: Gardai are probing a vicious attack at a local boxing club in Roscommon.

GARDAI are investigating scenes of violent disorder at an U14 boys' boxing tournament in Roscommon on Friday night, the Irish Amateur Boxing Association has confirmed.

The IABA says an 'abhorrent' incident happened during the final stages of the National Boy 4 Championship quarter finals in Castlerea. 

It is understood several males, believed to be four, burst into the venue after boxing with what appeared to be slash hooks and similar implements, allegedly seeking out another male.

Local reports say one man suffered injuries in the fracas, which went on for almost a minute before the perpetrators fled the facility.

"That such an incident could occur at a children's sporting event is abhorrent and is roundly condemned by every member of the Irish boxing family," an IABA official said.

"IABA, its officials, the host club Castlerea BC and our streaming partners are ready to assist Gardai with their enquiries in any possible way."

Friday was to be the first of three days of weekend boxing in Castlerea but officials immediately postponed any further bouts as stunned and traumatised competitors and their families came to terms with what happened.

"Understandably there will be clubs, boxers, officials and supporters at a loss" added the IABA, "but in the interests of their safety, there is no option. The risk remains too high, even if the competition proceeds behind closed doors."