LAST UPDATE | 29 Sep 2022

A MAN HAS been arrested after he allegedly rammed up to five Garda vehicles with a van in Co Cork last night.

A number of children were also taken to hospital for assessment after the incident. It is understood that all the occupants of the car are known to each other from north Cork. 

The incident took place at around 9.45pm last night in the Mahon area of Co Cork, when Gardaí signalled for a van to stop.

However, the driver failed to do so and rammed a Garda car.

“A short time later, the van stopped but when Gardaí attempted to engage with the driver, the Garda vehicle was rammed again,” said a Garda spokesperson.

Two additional Garda vehicles arrived at the scene and attempted to block the van but both vehicles were rammed. A number of additional Garda units responded and a managed containment operation ensued.

The van was stopped after a stinger device – a device containing spikes to puncture tyres – was deployed at Carrs Hill.

The man, aged in his 30s, was arrested at the scene.

He is currently being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at Bridewell Garda Station.

Multiple people, including five children who were in the van during the incident, were taken to Cork University Hospital for assessment. However, no serious injuries have been reported.

Following the incident, two Gardaí attended Cork University Hospital for medical treatment. Extensive damage was also caused to two official Garda vehicles while three other vehicles received minor damage.

In a statement, a Garda spokesperson said:

“All members involved are receiving support from their colleagues and local Garda Management and the wider organisational supports of the Peer Support Service, Chief Medical Officer and 24hour counselling service have been provided if required.

“Anyone with any information in relation to this incident or video footage is asked to contact Anglesea Garda Station on (021) 452 2000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.”

- With reporting from Niall O’Connor