There have been reports that vandals in south Dublin are trying to charge local residents protection money on their cars.

Residents in the Crumlin-Kimmage area of the city say they have been asked for €50 from gangs to keep their cars safe.

In one case some residents parked their cars in Crumlin garda station overnight for fear of vandalism or theft.

The Gardaí have encouraged anyone in the area who has been intimidated in any fashion to report the matter to their nearest station.

Local Fianna Fáil councillor Catherine Ardagh said: "It seems to be a problem with youths in the area, with a spate of windscreens and cars being smashed on a weekly basis around the Crumlin and Walkinstown area.

"I had a lady contact my office in relation to a friend of hers being asked for €50 so that his car would be damage-free in the morning, so it's quite disturbing."