Major Investigation Launched Against Online Threat Of Violence Against Taoiseach And Family
Gardai are investigating the matter of online threats of violence against the Taoiseach and his family, this weekend.
A post on Instagram was seen with a reference to a weapon and violent threats against Simon Harris along with his wife and children.
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The online threat post remained on the said social media account for two days. Gardai then asked for the social media form to be taken off the internet.
An immediate investigation was launched so that the perpetrator of the online threat against Mr Harris could be detected. The threat is also assumed to be the cause of protestors outside his official residence. A bomb threat remains part of this threat too.
The spokesperson of Mr Harris confirmed that he has chosen to stay silent on this matter as the safety of his family is at stake. Mr Harris’s silence is a surety that his words should not be used for negative implications in future.
Although the Instagram head has been contacted for the removal of the comment, Gardai was informed of the threat on Saturday night. They have confirmed that an investigation has been launched and soon the owner of the social media account and his whereabouts would be known.
The post clearly mentioned knives that targeted not only Taoiseach but also his wife and children. Moreover, there was a mention of “Wicklow Mountains”.
The intent and intensity of violence in the message are taken seriously by Garda as they feel that the message is “dark and sinister”.
Although the social media head was contacted for immediate action upon its removal, the post remained on social media for two days, Saturday and Sunday, because of the weekend.
It is likely that the threat is visible to those who have access, even after the removal of posts by the owner of a social media application. Gardai have asked for assistance from the social media account head to identify the person who owns the actual account.
After a deeper probe, it is known that the account is used with an Irish name that has three numbers mentioned in its username. It is a private account which means it would only be accessed with the owner’s permission.
Detectives have been assigned the task of keeping copies of online threats so that detailed information is gathered from various sources. It is the second investigation being carried out by Garda regarding Taoiseach.
A similar previous case before online threat
A threat that was made six weeks ago regarding the bomb threat at his home in Wicklow was also carried out by Garda. No device was seen after the search and an unmistakable line of inquiry was adopted to gain a clear stance on the case.
The suspect in that case is still serving a jail sentence after being in custody for unrelated activities.
Garda spokesperson explained that it remains the duty of social media companies to take immediate action against such online violence. They should not be waiting for any authorities like Garda to request them to remove the post since it does not come under the responsibilities of Garda.
Garda spokesperson added that these companies are aware of the content posted on their platforms each day. They have teams that are delegated only the duty of monitoring such online data.
Threats against prominent people in political arenas have now become common. Other than Taoiseach, the leaders include Minister of Justice Helen McEntee, Minister of Integration Roderic O’Gorman and Paul Murphy, and People Before Profit TD.
Gardai have to infuse their double powers and authorities to meet the serious needs of such matters as it inculcates the security of politicians. Strict surveillance for online data has now become inevitable, not only on Garda’s part but also on social media companies.
