Garda crackdown sees a record 65 staff suspended

A crackdown by garda commissioner Drew Harris on suspected misbehaviour in the force has resulted in the suspension of 65 gardai and civilian workers. It is thought to be the largest number suspended in the force’s history, and could rise in coming weeks as several internal inquiries conclude.

Last weekend Harris suspended eight gardai who are accused of failing to prosecute motorists for a variety of traffic offences at the behest of a senior colleague. More officers are expected to be suspended as part of this inquiry, which is examining allegations of wrongdoing and corruption in the Munster region.

A chief superintendent who sent lewd texts to a female colleague, which led to her making a formal complaint, is the most senior officer to be suspended.