Gardai are on high alert for a gang targeting and isolating drunk women across the southeast.

A 28-year-old man of Pakistani origin — who was acquitted of rape in recent years — is the main suspect but gardaí believe he has friends who are also involved. The man is known to drive a grey Kilkenny-registered Audi.

There have been reports about the gang in Dungarvan, Co Waterford, in recent weeks. It has also been active in Carlow and Waterford.

A source said that the gang is a ‘real concern’. ‘This man was acquitted of rape in recent years but is considered a real concern. He and his friends go to clubs and pubs where they target drunk young women, try to isolate them and take them away.

‘Pub staff and bouncers copped them in Dungarvan and managed to stop them. This is deliberate targeting and isolating drunk women and claiming consent.’