An investigation is underway after a member of the Defence Forces accidentally disacharged a firearm a petrol station in Portlaoise this week.
It’s believed that on Wednesday night at approximately 9.30pm a shot was accidentally fired during a prison escort convoy in the petrol station on the Abbeyleix road, Portlaoise.
No injuries were sustained during the incident.
A spokesperson for the Defence Forces said: “Prior to commencing a prisoner escort, there was a weapon discharged by one of the personnel on duty.”
“Breaches of procedure and safety in relation to firearms are investigated as a matter of course, with disciplinary action being taken where warranted.”
“All members of Óglaigh na hÉireann are subject to the highest standards of weapons handling throughout their careers both at home and abroad,” added the spokesperson.
Both Gardaí and Defence Forces Military Police are investigating the incident.
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