Remains of a Child found in North Dublin as Gardaí Investigate Disappearance of Daniel Aruebose
Gardaí are investigating the finding of skeletal remains near Donabate, north Dublin, as part of an examination into the disappearance of Daniel aruebose, a child last seen three to four years ago. Daniel, who would now be seven years old, lived with his family at The Gallery Apartments in Donabate.
The alarm was raised following checks on a social welfare payment connected to the child. Concerns identified during these checks were brought to Tusla,the child and family agency,who then contacted Gardaí.
Tusla had previously overseen the case and developments related to Daniel and his family, but ceased its involvement in 2020.
Gardaí suspect Daniel died, or was killed, around 2021 and that his remains were secretly buried. The investigation is focused on determining the cause of death – whether it was due to natural causes or involved foul play.
The remains were discovered on Wednesday morning following a three-week search of a field on Portrane Road, just outside Donabate. The search began based on information from a woman who guided Gardaí to the location where she claimed the remains were buried. After initial excavation yielded no results, the search area was expanded. Mechanical diggers were used in the excavation.
Gardaí are currently engaging with the local coroner and the remains will undergo careful exhumation and formal identification, including DNA analysis.
Gardaí have been speaking to both of Daniel’s parents, who are no longer together. The child’s mother, an Irish citizen originally from Africa, continues to live in Dublin.His father, who is Irish, has relocated to South America and is now married.
Information received during the investigation suggests Daniel died one night and was buried in the field where the remains were found. One line of inquiry being investigated is that the boy died of natural causes and was buried after attempts to revive him failed.
In a statement, Tusla expressed its condolences, stating: “The death of a young boy is an unimaginable tragedy, and we offer sincere condolences to those who knew and loved Daniel. We will continue to engage fully with An Garda Síochána as they continue their investigations and will provide support and care to those impacted. Anyone with information shoudl contact An Garda Síochána.”
