Gardaí have made an arrest following a report of trespassing, on what is believed to have been farmland, in Balyheary, Swords, Co. Dublin.

The incident occurred on Saturday, October 5, after farmers in the area had received reports of suspicious activity.

Farmers and members of the rural community in north Co. Dublin had warned via a rural crime WhatsApp group, with over 500 members, of a "suspicious vehicle" in the area.

A man in his 40s was arrested and has subsequently been charged in relation to the incident. He is due to appear before Swords District Court at a later date.

Farmers in the area said that animals were also seized during the arrests. Gardaí said that as the matter is now before the courts, no further information is available on the incident.

The Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) congratulated An Garda Síochána on the arrest.

The association has come together with gardaí to advise farmers and land owners on how to proceed on coming across or in contact with groups or individuals who are on their lands and property.

For anyone who witnesses trespassing on their own or a neighbouring property, IFA and gardaí advise people to dial 999 or 112- not the local garda station - and ask the operator for gardaí.

Those ringing should have their Eircode, townland and road number to hand. They should also give gardaí details as to where trespassers may end up.

If possible, vehicle registration numbers, make and colour should be noted. Photos of vehicles are also recommended.

If contact is made with trespassers, it is advised to ask the group or individual to leave the property.

It is also recommend not to engage in abusive comments or banter. All trespasser details should be passed on to neigbours to alert those in the area.