Gardaí Report 10% Rise in Domestic Abuse Incidents, 920 Arrests in Early 2026

Gardaí have reported a 10% increase in domestic abuse incidents during the first four months of this year. Over 17,900 incidents were recorded up to the end of April 2026, compared to the same period in 2025.

These statistics were released on the sixth annual Go Purple Day, a Garda initiative designed to raise awareness about domestic abuse. In 2025, a total of more than 52,600 domestic abuse incidents were reported, marking a 6% increase from 2024 and averaging over 1,000 reports per week.

During the first four months of 2026, there were 920 arrests for domestic abuse and 4,900 charges or summonses issued, representing a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2025. To commemorate Go Purple Day, Gardaí and the public were encouraged to display their support by incorporating purple into their attire, home decorations, or social media posts.

Prominent buildings across Ireland, including Garda Headquarters, the National Museum, the National Library, the Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle, the National Concert Hall, and Collins Barracks, along with several government buildings and Garda stations, were illuminated in purple. Assistant Commissioner for Organised and Serious Crime, Angela Willis, emphasized the devastating impact of domestic abuse, noting, «It can be a hidden crime, happening behind closed doors, and in the case of coercive control it can be occurring in plain sight. Those experiencing this form of abuse are very often isolated, cut off from support networks, leaving them feeling vulnerable, fearful and unable to advocate for themselves.»