Investigation Launched Into 'Attempted Exhumation' Of Grave Plot

An investigation has been launched into allegations that a grave has been dug up in Tallaght, Dublin.

It is understood that Garda are investigating claims that the grave of Michael Maughan in Bohernabreena cemetery has been disturbed. Mr Maughan died from meningitis in 2008.

The family of Mr Maughan have been involved in an appeal for information on the disappearance of Michael's brother, William, who disappeared along with his partner Anna in April 2015.

Reports suggest that soil has been removed from Michael Maughan's grave plot, while other's have described the incident as an "attempted exhumation".

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD, Seán Crowe, extended his sympathy to the Maughan family. He said: "I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Joe and Helen Maughan, and their family, following the attempted exhumation of their son Bobby's grave.

"It was with absolute fury, disbelief, and horror that I heard of this cowardly attack where the perpetrators tried to remove Bobby's remains in the middle of the night.

"Bobby was a well-liked and popular young man who grew up in Tallaght and who died tragically. This is a new low and shows that the perpetrators have a complete disregard for the living and the dead.

"This intimidation must be condemned and those involved in this despicable act need to identified, arrested, and removed from society.

"William 'Willie' Maughan and his 21 year old Latvian girlfriend Anna Varslavane went missing in April 2015 and are believed to have met a violent death at the hands of a County Louth-based drugs gang.

"His parents Joe, Helen, and the Maughan family have all led a high profile campaign looking for justice in the hope that new information will come forward about the young couple's abduction and violent deaths.

"The family believe the attack on the grave in Bohernabreena is directly connected to that campaign.

"I have no doubt that this latest appalling act will not deter the Maughan family and along with others, I would encourage more and more people to join with them in seeking justice for William Maughan and Anna Varslavane."

(MH)