Staff at a Spar shop in Cabra, Dublin, have been subjected to abuse, including racial slurs and physical assaults, by groups of children aged between 10 and 16, according to a statement released by the store on February 20, 2026.
The Spar, located on Faussagh Avenue, reported incidents of staff being sprayed with drinks, having food thrown at them, and being intimidated by the groups of young people. The statement, posted on the Spar Cabra Facebook page, directly appealed to parents, asking if they were aware of their children’s whereabouts during evening hours.
“Over the past few months the amount of kids hanging around outside the shop is getting out of hand,” the statement read. “Our Staff have been subject to racial abuse, verbal abuse, have had food thrown at them, sprayed with drinks, had eggs thrown at them, and intimidated.”
The store emphasized its commitment to the local community, highlighting its support for elderly residents through shopping deliveries and its provision of meals. “As a business we support the community that we are Proud to be apart of. We deliver shopping to the elderly, pack bags, make breakfasts and lunch, we are here for the community when it needs us,” the statement continued.
Spar Cabra is working with local Gardaí to address the issue, and has requested assistance in identifying the individuals involved. The statement indicated that Gardaí would contact families if the children could be identified. “We are in discussions with the community gardai in Cabra. If they can identify any of the kids involved they will get in contact,” the statement said. “We thank you for your consideration.”
The incident comes after a shopkeeper in Tallaght recently faced threats after posting CCTV images of alleged teenage thieves, a case discussed on the Irish podcast “Opinions Matter with Adrian & Jeremy” on February 18, 2026. The podcast explored the debate surrounding naming and shaming minors online when Gardaí are perceived as unable or unwilling to act.
