A major Garda probe has been launched into claims of serious online abuse and harassment of Munster Rugby players, it has emerged.
Senior officers revealed on Friday a probe into the claims has been ongoing for the past few months.
The alleged abuse –believed to have targeted players as well as their loved ones – was reportedly posted via accounts on Twitter and Instagram.
Supt Derek Smart said: “We are aware that certain people have made complaints, which we are investigating.
“All I can say is that an investigation is under way into complaints from individuals.
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“The investigation has been taking place over the last couple of months.
“It’s ongoing. No arrests have been made.”
Gardai said they were not aware of a complaint by Munster Rugby but rather the complaints are understood to have been made by individuals.
According to a report in the Limerick Leader, a source at the club claimed the alleged perpetrators were “actively looking to destroy reputations and falsely represent people”.
It claimed social media accounts were set up “for the purpose of attacking and abusing players, while also falsely claiming to be players online”.
Munster Rugby did not respond when asked for comment.
