**Garda detective under investigation for leaving firearm in Dublin store changing rooms**
Garda Headquarters has launched a disciplinary investigation into an incident where a close protection detective allegedly left their official firearm in a busy Dublin city center store while out shopping. The detective, who is part of a unit assigned to protect Government ministers, was on duty on the day of the incident earlier this week. The temporary misplacement of the handgun is being treated with seriousness by senior gardaí, who are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. The officer has been removed from close protection duties while the disciplinary investigation is ongoing.
**Incident Details**
According to reports, the armed garda was shopping in Dublin city center on Monday when they visited a store and used the changing room facilities. Upon leaving the store, a staff member discovered the handgun inside the dressing room. Local gardaí were informed of the situation, and the detective, realizing the gun was missing, promptly returned to the store to retrieve the weapon. Garda Headquarters was promptly notified of the incident and has since initiated an inquiry into the matter.
One source highlighted the seriousness of the situation, stating, “Staff noticed the gun and thankfully notified gardaí straight away. The outcome could have been a lot different if the weapon was picked up by the wrong person.” The incident has raised concerns about the protocols surrounding the proper handling of firearms while on duty and attending to personal matters. The investigation aims to address these issues and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
**Importance of Close Protection Duties**
Every Government minister currently receives protection from trained armed detectives who serve as both drivers and close protection officers. Previously, only select officials such as the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Attorney General, and Justice Minister received garda protection officers. However, in 2022, the protection was extended to include other members of the Cabinet due to heightened threat levels against them. The incident involving the misplaced firearm underscores the critical nature of the duties performed by these close protection officers and the need for stringent protocols to ensure the safety of both the officers and the public.
**Previous Incidents and Oversight**
In a separate incident in 2018, the Garda watchdog conducted a public interest inquiry after a sub-machine gun was found on a Dublin street by a member of the public. The weapon was later turned in at a garda station. The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) investigated the incident and determined that the firearm had been properly secured in the trunk of a garda car, which accidentally opened as the vehicle exited the station onto a ramp. Following a thorough review, the commission concluded that the two gardaí involved should not face sanctions for the incident.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper firearm handling procedures and the need for constant vigilance when carrying out duties that involve the use of weapons. The safety and security of both the officers and the public are paramount, and any lapses in protocol must be addressed promptly to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The disciplinary investigation launched by Garda Headquarters underscores the commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability within the force.