ARMED GARDAÍ SURROUNDED Blanchardstown shopping centre yesterday evening after receiving credible reports that an armed man was inside the building.

Officers received a call shortly before 5pm from a member of the public who reported seeing a missing teenager gardaí had earlier warned could be armed.

The person who rang in the sighting did not tell gardaí that the man was armed. However, officers had information that the teenager, who is still missing, may be in possession of a legally-held rifle.

Armed officers were on the scene in less than five minutes. The centre was evacuated to ensure the safety of staff and customers.

Gardai confirmed that no arrests were made during the incident and the search for the teenager continues.

Gardaí continue to carry out searches in the Ennis and surrounding areas for the young man.

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