Gardai have been investigating complaint for nearly three years (file photo)

Gardai have launched an investigation after a respected officer's Toyota Corolla was burnt-out as he played a football game in Ashford, Co Wicklow.


The attack on the car took place on the recent back holiday weekend and is being linked to a grudge attack by gangland thugs.

Sources suggest a local crime boss who goes by the name of 'The Businessman' has something to do with the attack, after he was rattled by recent increased scrutiny of his activities.

The gang associated with 'The Businessman' have been using the car burning attacks on a regular basis in recent years.

No one was injured in the incident, but insiders suggested the attack on the car is being viewed as a "declaration of war" against gardai by the gang.