BREAKING: Man arrested in connection to 2024 criminal damage by fire incidents in Kildare

A man has been arrested in connection to two 2024 criminal damage by fire incidents, both of which occurred in North Kildare.

A garda spokesperson explained today (January 13) that gardaí continue to investigate all the circumstances surrounding two incidents of criminal damage by fire, which occurred in Leixlip between the early hours of Tuesday, January 30, 2024 and Wednesday, February 7, 2024.

Both incidents occurred at a vacant site which was subject to false online rumours which claimed it would be converted in order to host International Protection Applicants, also known as IPAs or asylum seekers.

An attempt to set fire to the property was initially reported in January, while a second occurence of arson at the property proved to be more devastating.

At the time, gardaí criticised misinformation being circulated online in relation to the damage site, and later arrested a male aged in his 40s in connection to the investigation back in June of 2024.

He was later released without charge, with a spokesperson at the time adding that he had been "charged with offences related to this investigation" and "was due to appear in court at a later date"

And now, a new suspect has been arrested — today's spokesperson elaborated: "Investigating gardaí arrested a male, aged in his 30s, this morning in connection with this investigation.

"He is currently detained pursuant to Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a garda station in County Kildare."

They added: "Investigations are ongoing."

Anyone with information relating to one or both incidents is asked to contact Leixlip Garda Station 01 666 7800, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

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