GARDAI HAVE arrested a man who threatened staff at a shop in Drogheda with a blood-filled syringe during an attempted robbery.
The man entered the shop in Co Louth at around 4pm this past Thursday, April 2nd, before approaching a female member of staff.
He proceeded to threaten the woman with what appeared to be a blood-filled syringe, demanding money and jewellery.
He then fled the scene on foot with a gold necklace taken from the staff member.
Gardai located at a nearby COVID-19 checkpoint were soon alerted to the theft and gave chase with the suspect, who is said to be in his 30s, eventually apprehended.
The suspect is now being held at Drogheda Garda Station pending further questioning
A Garda spokesperson said: "At approximately 4pm a man entered a store on Dominic Street, Drogheda. It’s understood he approached and threatened a female staff member with what appeared to be a blood-filled syringe and demanded money.
"Having failed get any money he took a gold necklace from the staff member before leaving the scene on foot.
"Gardaí operating a (Covid19) checkpoint nearby were alerted to the incident and arrested a male suspect moments later following a foot chase.
"The suspect was taken to Drogheda Garda Station where he is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984.
"Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to this incident to contact the incident room at Drogheda Garda Station. Anyone with information is asked to contact Drogheda Garda Station on 041-9874200 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.
"The investigation is ongoing."
