Garda concern after Letterkenny 'sting' by private group targeting child predators

Gardai have said that the actions of online groups targeting alleged child predators could jeopardise possible criminal proceedings.

It follows an incident in Letterkenny this week where a man was targeted in a “sting” operation by individuals from one such group. 

A video of an interaction with the man at a location in Letterkenny was widely shared across various social media platforms. 

In the video, which runs over 41 minutes and published on a page boasting a sizeable following, allegations are put to the man and footage appears to show examples of the alleged activity being shown to him. 

Groups such as these are known pose as minors in an attempt to ensnare possible offenders before arranging a meeting, at which point they confront the person. 

The interactions are recorded and posted online, attracting huge viewing numbers.

In a statement to Donegal Live, An Garda Siochana says that gardai are “aware of an incident that occurred at a premises in Letterkenny” on Monday afternoon last, April 7, 2025.

A spokesperson said that enquiries are ongoing into the matter and confirmed that there have been “no arrests at this time”.

However, it is believed that the man was questioned by gardai.

The spokesperson said that the activity by private groups is “cause of concern for An Garda Síochána and for other police services”.

A statement said: “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. 

“There are concerns over the legality of the actions and the manner in which such groups operate, and how they interact with their chosen targets prior to and during the arranged meeting has the potential to affect future criminal proceedings.

“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 safety of children, is a priority at all times for An Garda Síochána and An Garda Síochána use all lawful means to fully investigate and prosecute crimes which jeopardise the safety of a child.”

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The spokesperson said that 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”.