Parents are now wearing body armour to school drop-offs due to gang threats. Concerns grow as children face risks from organized crime in their communities.
Dublin: Some parents are wearing body armour when dropping off their kids at school. They fear their children might be targeted by gangsters.
Deputy Commissioner Justin Kelly shared this alarming news during a meeting with Garda leaders. He mentioned that some kids are getting caught up in gang activities, putting their lives at risk.
Last year, gardai opened intelligence files on seven children under 12. This is a significant drop from over 400 four years ago, and the practice is now being audited.
Kelly noted that some parents are taking extreme measures, like wearing bulletproof jackets. He confirmed that organized groups have threatened children in the past.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris added that gang feuds often target schools, where children are guaranteed to be. He assured that gardai are working with schools to ensure a safe environment for kids.
