Man arrested after gun suspected to have been fired at large disturbance in the Midlands

Gardaí are appealing for information in relation to a public order incident in Portlaoise during which a firearm is believed to have been discharged. 

A man in his 30s was arrested in relation to the incident which occurred on waste ground off the Mountmellick Road in Portlaoise at around 4pm on Wednesday. He is being held at Portlaoise Garda Station.  

A search operation involving dozens of Gardaí was underway at the location off the Mountmellick Road in Portlaoise earlier today.  

The Leinster Express/Laois Live is reporting that a large number of people were involved in a disturbance at the location when it’s believed a firearm, possibly a shotgun, was produced and fired.  Gardaí have been carrying out a detailed search of the location for any evidence. 

Portlaoise Gardaí are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious in the area on Wednesday. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have video or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident. 

 Gardaí said all information will be treated in the strictest confidence and they urged any witnesses to come forward. 

Anyone who has information, video footage or who knows anything about the incident is asked to contact Portlaoise Garda Station on 057 867 4100 or call the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.