A manhunt for a convicted sex offender who travelled to Ireland from the UK is underway in the south-west of the country.

A European arrest warrant has been issued for Pakistani national Mian Mujahid Ali Shahid (commonly known as Mian Shahid) after he was convicted of two counts of sexual assault in the UK.

Gardai have appealed to the public for information on the whereabouts of Mian Shahid who is wanted by police in Scotland.

The 19-year-old was last seen in the Foynes area of Limerick on August 11, 2015. Gardai say they 'believe he is still in the jurisdiction'.

It is understood he travelled to Ireland from Scotland earlier this year. He had lived temporarily in Scotland.

Shahid was convicted in his absence of two counts of sexual assault of an 18-year-old female.

He was convicted at Stafford Crown Court on April 13 and a warrant was issued for his arrest one day later.

If arrested, Mian Shahid is set to be jailed for 30 months for the offence.

Gardai have carried out extensive enquires but have failed to establish his current whereabouts.

They are continuing to liaise closely with Police Scotland and the Staffordshire Police.

Gardai are now appealing for him to contact gardai as he is subject to the reporting provisions of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 in Ireland.

They have also appealed for the driver of a car in which Mian Shahid was seen travelling in as a passenger to contact gardai.

Gardai are also asking for anyone with information on the movement of Mian Shahid in Ireland to contact gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Henry Street Gardai station on 061 212400 or the Garda confidential line 1800 666 111

Online Editors