60-year-old man arrested after attempted abduction of toddler in Dublin

Gardaí have launched an investigation into an alleged abduction attempt of a two-year-old boy.

The incident is alleged to have occurred in a Lidl store in Terenure, South Dublin on February 26th, when a mother was shopping with her young son. A 60-year-old man was arrested in relation to the incident, questioned, and released without charge. A file is now being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions. A source told The Sun:

"This is an unusual incident and there is no clear indication as to why this individual would attempt to take the child. He has a clear record and he only managed to walk a few feet with the child before his mother intervened and took him back. There is no need for mass hysteria in the area and this could well be an isolated incident. Gardai would also like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward."

If you have information that could help the investigation, please contact Terenure Garda Station on (01) 666 6400, the Garda Confidential Line (1800 666 111) or get in touch with any Garda Station.