Urgent Arrest Made Over Threats to Simon Harris’ Children

UPDATE: A woman in her 30s has been arrested in Dublin in connection with alarming online threats directed at Tánaiste Simon Harris and his children. The arrest occurred today, September 2, 2025, following an investigation into threats that surfaced on social media over the weekend.

Authorities from An Garda Síochána confirmed the woman is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 at a Garda Station in the Dublin Metropolitan Region. The Gardaí have not released additional details at this time, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

In a statement on Monday, Tánaiste Harris described the threats as “despicable” and intolerable, emphasizing the profound impact such menacing actions have on public figures and their families. “As a father, I have very strong views and feelings on this as you can imagine,” he stated. “Let me be clear: threatening people — any person — is a crime. Threatening children is despicable. It is cowardice and it is a line that no decent society should tolerate being crossed.”

The threats against Harris come amid a backdrop of previous intimidation he has faced, including social media abuse and even a bomb threat. These incidents reflect a troubling trend of hostility towards elected officials in Ireland.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the threats, stating they represent not only a personal attack on Harris but also a fundamental risk to the democratic fabric of the nation. “Such threats to people in public life are unacceptable. They are a fundamental threat to our democracy,” he asserted.

The investigation is being led by detectives in Wicklow with support from the Special Detective Unit (SDU) and the Garda National Crime Cyber Bureau. The SDU, known for addressing serious threats against government officials, is actively involved in this case, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

As details continue to emerge, the public is urged to remain vigilant against threats to safety and security in political discourse. The Gardaí have not specified when further information will be available, but the investigation remains a top priority.

This developing story keeps the focus on the urgent need for safety in public service and highlights the emotional toll threats can take on families. As the investigation unfolds, further updates will be provided.