The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued an urgent safety alert to schools across the region following reports of suspicious approaches to children in the Republic of Ireland.
Authorities are urging heightened vigilance after similar incidents were reported in counties Galway and Mayo, where individuals in vehicles attempted to engage with young people.
Cross-Border Security Concerns
While no specific threats have been identified in Northern Ireland, the PSNI is taking proactive measures to ensure student safety. The warning comes as schools throughout the province resume normal operations following mid-term breaks.
A PSNI spokesperson confirmed: "We are aware of reports in the Republic of Ireland and have circulated advice to schools as a precautionary measure."
What Schools and Parents Should Know
The police service has provided specific guidance to educational institutions, including:
- Remaining alert to any suspicious activity near school premises
- Reporting unusual behaviour or vehicles immediately
- Reinforcing safety messages with students and staff
- Maintaining regular communication with local police teams
Parents are encouraged to discuss stranger danger protocols with their children while avoiding causing unnecessary alarm. The PSNI emphasizes that these measures are precautionary rather than response to any direct threat within Northern Ireland.
Republic of Ireland Incidents
In recent days, Irish police have investigated multiple reports of individuals attempting to approach children in County Galway and County Mayo. These incidents involved vehicles stopping near young people and attempts to engage them in conversation.
Gardai have increased patrols in affected areas and are continuing their investigations into these concerning occurrences.
The PSNI maintains close cooperation with their counterparts in the Republic of Ireland, sharing intelligence and coordinating safety measures across the border to protect children in both jurisdictions.
