TWO GARDAÍ IN the east of the country have been warned of a threat made against them in recent weeks by a criminal and that they could be targeted at their own home.

The gardaí, who are married to each other, were informed of the threat by management two weeks ago.

The criminal is well-known to gardaí for his involvement in the drug trade and car theft. He has also been involved in a number of violent altercations in the past. There had been a particular focus on this man in recent months and when he learned of garda interest in him, he is understood to have made the threat against the couple.

Reference was made to where the couple lives, to their car and the gym where they hold membership. Management has advised the couple to be vigilant and it was suggested they should avoid attending their gym.

“It was implied that they should move from the apartment they are in too,” a source close to the couple said.

“They are checking over their shoulder when they go in and out of their home now, looking outside whenever they hear a noise,” they added.

We all receive threats on a day-to-day basis, but talking about the car and the apartment, that’s more serious. They’re rattled by this.

A garda spokesperson said when any threat is made to a garda or member of the public, a threat assessment is carried out.

“If appropriate, a garda information message form would be served on the individual. They would be advised of their personal safety and to carry out appropriate action again if deemed necessary.

Gardaí said it would be inappropriate to comment on individual cases, but that an investigation would be carried out into any such threats.

Read: Gardaí given new powers to test drivers for drugs at roadside>

Read: Six officers injured when police cars rammed after gardaí alerted PSNI to vehicle crossing border>

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