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Gardaí arrested three men as part of an investigation into the sexual abuse and neglect of children.
The men were detained following a garda search operation in Meath on Monday morning.
The search was carried out as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations that a number of children were sexually abused and neglected within an extended family setting.
A vulnerable adult is also among the victims, with the offences alleged to have spanned several years.
The three suspects, aged in their 30s, 40s and 50s, are all known to each other and are being detained at garda stations in Meath.
A decision on whether to charge the men, or release them from custody pending the completion of a prosecution file, is due to be made this evening.
One of the men is being quizzed on suspicion of sexual offences while the other males are being interviewed in relation to allegations of child neglect and withholding information.
The investigation has been described as “sensitive” and the victims have been moved to safety.
A garda spokesperson confirmed that the search of a domestic residence had been completed.
“Three males (aged in their 30s, 40s and 50s) have been arrested in connection with an ongoing investigation.
“The three males are being detained under section 4 Criminal Justice Act 1984 at Garda Stations in Co. Meath.
“An Garda Síochána is not making any further comment at this time.”
