Search Focuses on Possible Remains of Boy Previously in Care
Gardaí are conducting a large-scale search in Donabate, north County Dublin, focusing on a plot of land off Portrane Road, as part of an investigation into the disappearance of a young boy now strongly suspected to be deceased. The investigation began last Friday after Tusla, the child and family agency, contacted authorities with serious welfare concerns.
For a period prior to being returned to his family, the boy had been in the care of Tusla. According to a statement from Tusla, no new referrals or facts of concern regarding the child were received until last week, prompting their contact with Gardaí.
The Garda investigation, led by a senior investigating officer from Swords Garda station, has so far been unable to locate the boy, identify his current whereabouts, or confirm he is still alive. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly stated the inquiry is a “huge priority.” He also emphasized that withholding information is a criminal offense.
The search commenced on Tuesday morning, involving a Garda search team and a cadaver dog. A specific area of the land was cordoned off, and excavation is anticipated to continue for several days. The operation was suspended overnight and is expected to resume Wednesday.Investigators have interviewed members of the boy’s family, including his parents. The initial concerns arose from checks made regarding a social welfare payment related to the child. These checks prompted Tusla to investigate further and ultimately alert Gardaí.
Based on interviews, Gardaí now believe the boy may have been dead for a number of years. they are currently working to determine the circumstances surrounding his death – whether it was accidental, due to natural causes, or involved foul play.
A property at The Gallery, Donabate, where the child is believed to have lived around the time he disappeared, was sealed off over the weekend for a forensic examination.
Tusla stated it is cooperating with the Garda investigation and responding to queries “to be open and transparent with the public without impacting” the ongoing inquiry. They also confirmed that, as standard procedure, a review of their engagement with the child has been sent to the National Review Panel due to the serious nature of the case.
Garda Headquarters has appealed to anyone with information to come forward.
