Athlone sex assault inquiry: two men released from custody

Two of the three men who were arrested as part of a Garda inquiry into an alleged sexual assault on children have been released without charge.

A spokesperson for the Garda press office stated that the two men were released last night (Sunday) and that a third man remains in custody at Athlone Garda Station.

The alleged severe sexual assault is said to have happened at 4pm on Saturday in the Athlone area.

The victims, both girls, are understood to be aged just six and nine.

Speaking on Newstalk this morning, Justice Minister Alan Shatter described the incident as 'shocking' and said: 'My heart goes out to these children and their families.'

When asked about rumours that the man in custody had previously been convicted of a sexual offence, he said this was not the case.

“It is incorrect to suggest that an individual being questioned is someone who has been released from prison following on their being convicted for committing a sexual offence,” said the Minister.