Garda probe into claims of online abuse of Munster rugby players

A MAJOR Garda investigation is under way into allegations of serious online abuse and harassment of Munster rugby players.

Senior gardaí revealed yesterday that a probe into the claims has been ongoing for the past few months.

It is understood some of the alleged abuse was posted online via fake player profiles.

The alleged abuse – believed to have targeted players as well as their loved ones – was reportedly posted via accounts on Twitter and Instagram.

Superintendent Derek Smart of Henry Street garda station in Limerick said: “We are aware that certain people have made complaints, which we are investigating.”

Gardaí would not comment on the nature of the complaints. “All I can say is that an investigation is under way into complaints from individuals.

“The investigation has been taking place over the last couple of months,” Supt Smart said.

“It’s ongoing. No arrests have been made.”

Gardaí said they were not aware of an actual complaint by the Munster rugby club itself, but rather the complaints are understood to have been made by individuals linked to the club.

According to a report in the ‘Limerick Leader’, a source at the club claimed the alleged perpetrators were “actively looking to destroy reputations and falsely represent people”.

Social media accounts were manufactured “for the purpose of attacking and abusing players, while also falsely claiming to be Munster rugby players online,” it claimed.

Gardaí said they were not aware of reports the club had sought the help of an expert to help players deal with the alleged abuse.

Munster’s season is reaching a critical stage with the team facing a crucial Guinness Pro14 clash with Zebre at Thomond Park today.

The squad travels to Murrayfield next weekend for a Champions Cup quarterfinal showdown against Edinburgh.

Munster Rugby did not respond when asked for comment.

Perpetrators are ‘actively looking to destroy reputations’