A Dublin Bus driver was confronted by a self-described online predator hunter group while on duty in Dublin over the weekend, prompting a Garda response and an ongoing investigation.
The incident took place on Saturday when members of the citizen-led group boarded a Dublin Bus vehicle and confronted the driver. The encounter was broadcast live on social media, where footage has since attracted tens of thousands of views.
During the confrontation, members of the group made a series of allegations against the driver. No criminal charges have been announced, and An Garda Síochána has stressed that investigations remain ongoing.
Dublin Bus confirmed it is aware of the incident and is assisting the authorities.
"Dublin Bus is aware of an incident that occurred on Saturday 18 July," a spokesperson said.
"An Garda Síochána were contacted and attended the scene. Dublin Bus is co-operating fully with the relevant authorities in relation to this matter."
Gardaí attended the scene following reports of the confrontation but confirmed that no arrests have been made.
"Gardaí attended an incident on Saturday 18th July 2026. No arrests have been made at this time. Investigations are ongoing," a Garda spokesperson said.
The force reiterated that the investigation of criminal offences is a matter for law enforcement and highlighted the legal rights afforded to all individuals.
"It is An Garda Síochána's role to investigate crime and enforce enacted legislation. Every citizen has a constitutional right to innocence until proven guilty and be subject to a human rights based criminal investigation," the statement continued.
While reaffirming that protecting children remains a policing priority, Gardaí also expressed concern about the activities of self-appointed online predator hunter groups.
"The safety of children is a priority at all times for An Garda Síochána and An Garda Síochána uses all lawful means to fully investigate and prosecute crimes which jeopardise the safety of a child," the spokesperson said.
Gardaí warned that confrontations organised by private groups have the potential to escalate and may complicate criminal investigations.
"The actions by 'private' groups are a cause of concern for An Garda Síochána and for other police services. The activity engaged in and the manner of confrontation between such groups and their targets has the potential for violence and could result in harm to persons present."
The statement added that there are concerns surrounding the legality of how some groups operate and whether their actions could undermine future prosecutions.
Gardaí urged anyone with information relating to the suspected sexual exploitation of children to report it directly to An Garda Síochána.
"Anyone with information relating to the potential sexual exploitation of children should report it immediately to An Garda Síochána where it will be investigated by professional investigators," the spokesperson said.
If this is intended for publication, consider omitting or changing the phrase "online predator hunter" in the headline unless it is clearly attributed, and avoid identifying the individual unless and until there are formal charges or another clear public-interest justification.
