Irish language students claim gun was pointed at them in Mayo Gaeltacht

A MAN has been accused of brandishing an intimidation firearm at a group of Irish language students in the Mayo Gaeltacht.

Krzysztof Knapik (43) of 2 Cois Abhainn, Carrowtighe appeared before Belmullet District Court where he was charged with possession of an imitation firearm outside his home on August 11, 2024.

It is alleged that Mr Knapik brandished the imitation firearm in front of a group of up to eight Irish language students from Dublin as they walked to their accommodation between 1 am and 2 am.

The court heard that the DPP had directed that the matter be dealt with summarily in the district court and the allegations against the defendant were outlined to Judge Fiona Lydon for jurisdictional purposes.

Inspector Dermot Butler explained that the students were attending the Irish language college in Carrowtighe in the Erris Gaeltacht and they were on their way home. As they passed by the defendant's home, it is alleged that he came outside and brandished what they thought was a firearm at them and they ran away frightened.

Insp Butler explained that as they ran away, some of the teenagers who were aged between 15 and 16 heard a loud bang which frightened them further. He said the teenagers reported the incident to their supervisors and the gardaí were notified.  

When gardaí arrived at Mr Knapnik's home, Insp Butler said the firearm was found on his kitchen table.

A photograph of the alleged offending weapon was shown to Judge Lydon who commented that in all intents and purposes it looked like a real handgun and expressed concern about the allegations.

Mr Knapnik told Judge Lydon that he is a Polish national and he did not have a solicitor but he later appointed Peter Loftus to represent him in court.

When asked for further details, Insp Butler confirmed that Mr Knapnik did not engage with the youths but it is alleged he pointed the weapon in the air before they took off running.  

He added that he imagined the group were boisterous as they made their way back to their accommodation after socialising. He said that the firearm looks very realistic and they were very frightened.

Judge Lydon reiterated her concerns regarding the seriousness of the allegations against Mr Knapnik and as a result she was refusing jurisdiction.

She adjourned the case until May 14 in Belmullet District Court for DPP consent.