A number of firearms have been stolen during an armed robbery at a gun dealership in Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary.
The incident happened at around 1.30am this morning at a licensed firearms dealership in Cregg.
Gardaí say the implications of the robbery are potentially devastating, particularly if the guns find their way into the hands of feuding gangs.
Four masked men were waiting inside the grounds of Cregg House which shares a driveway with another house known locally as the steward's house.
Tonnie Keevan, who lives at the steward's house, was confronted by the men, at least one of whom had a gun, as he and his partner returned from a night out.
They were taken into the house and tied up, along with Mr Keevan's partner's daughter, who is in her 20s, and an elderly man, who is a caretaker on the estate.
The men then robbed approximately 30 guns, including pistols, shotguns and rifles.
The family car, a beige-coloured Honda Civic Saloon with a 03-WX registration, was also taken.
Gardaí were alerted just before 5am this morning when Mr Keevan managed to free himself.
No shots were fired and no one was injured in the incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact gardaí at Carrick-on-Suir on 051-642040, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800-666-111 or any Garda Station.
