An investigation is under way after three train carriages were damaged with graffiti in Co Westmeath.
Gardaí say that the carriages were damaged at the station in Athlone between 4am and 6am this morning.
A spokesperson for Irish Rail said it was a group involved in the graffiti, and described the damage done as "significant".
He said that the estimated cost to clean the carriages will come between €50,000 and €60,000.
CCTV has been preserved, while the carriages, which had been in the station ahead of an early service, have now been removed.
The spokesperson said: "Vandalism of this nature is costly and disruptive and we always pursue such cases with the gardaí, and we have had a number of successful prosecutions.
"Along with gardaí we will be working to ensure these vandals face justice."
Gardaí are now appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information is asked to contact Athlone Garda Station on 090 649 2600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
